Cornerback Jonathan Hefney is out to prove that he can play in the NFL. He was humbled last year while playing for the CFL’s Winnipeg Blue Bombers. It was a learning experience and he also got noticed.

The Lions had him work out in December and then signed him as a free agent on Jan. 4, the day after the season ended.

He’s also got a bit of a chip on his shoulder (possibly more like a chunk) because he’s been told he’s too short to play corner in the NFL. He’s listed as 5-foot-9, but said he recently measured at just over 5-foot-8. He’s been able to dunk a basketball since he was in high school.

Again, he’s got the athleticism needed, but the question is can he play. He got some good looks during the OTAs, but training camp will be a crucial time for Hefney who was undrafted out of Tennessee.

(This is part of a series of 20 Lions to watch in training camp which starts July 31. Follow me on Twitter.com @PaulaPasche.)