Comparing Oakland Raiders Linebackers to past greats

May 19, 2015; Alameda, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders assistant defensive backs coach Rod Woodson at organized team activities at the Raiders practice facility. From left: Jacoby Hale (56), Brandian Ross (29), Ben Heeney (51), Sio Moore (55), Woodson andJames Dockery (41) and Josh Shirley (47). Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The Rookies

Neiron Ball and Ben Heeney will be relegated to Special Teams duty for the most part and any time they play on defense will be considered a surprise, unless it is due to an injury. Of the two Rookies, Heeney was the most productive but if Ball can come back from Microfracture surgery, he could be a Sio Moore clone. Ball has excellent football speed, and plays from snap to whistle.

Heeney reminds me of a slower Kirk Morrison, as in a “Tackling Machine” but where most of those come after a decent gain. Making a long-range prediction, I say Ball will be a MLB backing up Curtis Lofton and groomed to take over his spot when the coaching staff deems him ready. His quick feet and speed will help him fit right in between Mack and Moore.

Next: Raiders Comparisons: Conclusion