Some have blamed management teams for not giving enough first-team opportunities. Others have wondered whether it's a lack of quality coming through. With this in mind, we've looked back over previous seasons to see where graduates who've made their debut have ultimately ended up.
This list doesn't include those who came over to Hearts after graduating from other academies following their 16th birthday, like Rory Currie and Jamie Brandon, nor does it include players brought over from abroad like Marcus Godinho or Aleks Petkov. We've also limited it to debutants who broke through after the club's return to the top flight in 2015.
13. Scott McGill
Made four appearances in the 2020/21 campaign, three of which came in the League Cup following Hearts' demotion from the top flight. Sent on loan to Aidrieonians, Kelty Hearts and Raith Rovers before ultimately signing for the latter club permanently this summer. Photo: Ross Parker - SNS Group
14. Finlay Pollock
Arguably the biggest hope of the academy graduates who've played for the first-team and are still at the club. Signed an extension until 2025 last season, though first-team opportunities have been disrupted by injury issues. Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group
15. Aidan Denholm
Played once for the first team in a League Cup victory over Cove Rangers in 2021. Was originally told he was allowed to leave Hearts last season, but after a change of management he was given another year's contract. Photo: Ross MacDonald - SNS Group
16. Mackenzie Kirk
Son of former striker and Hearts Women head coach Andy, Kirk made his debut as a late substitute against Ross County in 2022, to date his only game for the club. Another who got a one-year contract extension recently. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group