Mack

Hollins

Hollins was the only Pat to post an above-average box score in a title tilt where their offensive line got utterly dominated. Battling with Kayshon Boutte for the Patriots’ primary down-field role, 32-year-old Hollins posted the second highest yardage total of his career (550) despite missing two games with injury. Playing on his fifth time in five years, his 46 receptions were also his second most. Excellent stuff, though Hollins’ most notable contribution remains his blocking. Signed for $2.9 million in 2026, Hollins should be back with the Pats, though his salary is not guaranteed. Although the Patriots had success with this year’s motley receiving crew, upgrading the corps figures to be an offseason priority.

Hollins hauled in a 20-yard pass in the second quarter to convert a third-and-long, but the Patriots followed up his big play with a punt three plays later. The speedster later broke free on a flea-flicker play for a 31-yard gain, only to see that drive end with a missed field goal by Andy Borregales. Despite Hollins’ efforts not resulting in points, his impact on the passing game was obvious. Assuming he didn’t suffer any setbacks, he should be good to go in two weeks for the Patriots’ title game appearance.

Hollins makes his return from injured reserve in time to face the Broncos in the AFC Championship game, likely returning to a semi-featured role due to his run-blocking abilities. It is likely we see undrafted free agent Efton Chism the odd man out due to Hollins’ return, with DeMario Douglas and Kyle Williams joining Hollins, Stefon Diggs, and Kayshon Boutte as the active wide receivers come Sunday. Hollins’ red zone acumen and deep-threat abilities warrant consideration in DFS on the short slate.

Hollins was just designated to return yesterday, so we’d be a little surprised if he was instantly activated but this gives him a chance. Davis was spotted shedding a non-contact jersey in practice on Friday and would seem to have a real chance to go against Denver.

Hollins resumed practicing today, which gives him a chance to suit up for the Patriots’ AFC Championship Game against the Broncos. Hollins is a reliable blocker and a streaky producer, operating as a speedy field-stretcher for the Patriots. His return could reduce WR Kayshon Boutte’s snap share, though Boutte has caught 7-of-9 targets for 141 yards and one touchdown in two postseason games. He has a chance to retain the starting role even if Hollins returns.

Hollins landed on injured reserve after injuring his abdomen in late December. The speedy field-stretching wide receiver would be nice to have on the field due to his blocking ability, but his absence allows WR Kayshon Boutte to remain on the field, operating as an effective downfield pass catcher.

Vrabel said the team is “still working through everything with some of those guys that could be back,’ so it’s unlikely we learn much about Hollins’ availability before the Patriots release their first injury report on Wednesday. Hollins hasn’t played since Week 16 and has yet to practice since going down. The veteran receiver has come up big on various occasions for the Patriots this season and would be a welcomed addition to the offense against a top-flight Broncos defense.

Hollins played a large role for the Patriots due to his willingness and ability to block in the run game, something that isn’t likely to be made up for outside of a drastic shift to heavier rates of 12-personnel. Austin Hooper could see a significant role the rest of the way, starting in Week 17 against the Jets. That said, he isn’t likely to carry enough upside to be of use in fantasy circles.

Down two of their four main wideouts this year, and with DeMario Douglas (hamstring) also questionable, it’s possible that Stefon Diggs is asked to play outside more against the Jets in Week 17. None of New England’s three practice squad wideouts have any real game experience, so there’s probably no risk of an outside elevation blowing up here.

Hollins has missed back-to-back practices with the injury. The Patriots also may be without Kayshoun Boutte (concussion), so Drake Maye will likely be working with a less-than-spectacular receiving crops in Week 17 against the lowly Jets.