The New England Patriots have awarded wide receiver Mack Hollins a $400,000 bonus despite the player falling short of his contract incentives due to a season-ending injury, according to reports.
Hollins finished the season just four catches shy of a $400,000 performance incentive. The veteran receiver was forced to miss the final two regular-season games of the year after suffering a lacerated spleen. In a show of good faith, the Patriots honored the incentive anyway, adding a $400,000 signing bonus to Hollins’ contract to compensate for the missed milestone.
The decision to pay the bonus underscores Hollins' value to the team during a season where he served as a veteran leader in the receiving corps. Before the injury, Hollins was a consistent contributor to the Patriots' offensive scheme. The lacerated spleen, which sidelined him for the crucial final stretch, was the primary factor preventing him from reaching the catch threshold required by his original contract language.
By converting the incentive into a signing bonus, the Patriots ensure that Hollins is made whole financially. This move is often seen in the NFL as a way to maintain strong player relations, especially when a player's statistics are hindered by unavoidable medical issues. Hollins had been a primary depth piece for the New England passing attack throughout the campaign before the injury occurred.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Sources & Original Reporting