Oakland Raiders biggest needs at halfway mark
By Austin Gayle
Oct 25, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers wide receiver Jacoby Jones (12) runs back the kickoff as Oakland Raiders inside linebacker Ben Heeney (51) defends during the first quarter at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Solution
Though rookie linebacker Neiron Ball will likely miss the next couple games for Oakland, the former Florida Gator did serve as an upgrade at the position due to his ability to somewhat maintain coverage against tight ends and running backs. His return will likely push Lofton out of the lineup at least on passing downs.
As for a more permanent solution, fellow rookie linebacker Ben Heeney could also see an increased amount of snaps at the position, as the young stud flashed his athleticism and effort throughout the preseason. Though Heeney is a late-round selection with a lot of room to develop, he is again another rookie on this roster listed behind a player that can’t play much worse.