The New England Patriots are receiving a significant offensive boost just in time for their biggest test of the season. On Saturday, the Patriots activated WR Mack Hollins from injured reserve, clearing the way for the veteran playmaker to suit up for Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the Denver Broncos.
Hollins has been sidelined since Week 16 after suffering an abdominal injury during a victory over the Baltimore Ravens. His return provides rookie sensation Drake Maye with one of his most reliable and versatile targets as the team looks to secure a spot in Super Bowl LX. The move was widely anticipated after Hollins returned to practice earlier this week and was a full participant in Friday's session.
The Return of a Key Offensive Weapon
Before his injury, Mack Hollins established himself as a vital component of the New England passing attack. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 221 pounds, Hollins offers a unique physical presence that the Patriots have missed over the last month. In 15 regular-season games, Hollins recorded 46 receptions for 550 yards and two touchdowns, trailing only Stefon Diggs and Kayshon Boutte in receiving production among the team's wideouts.
Beyond the stat sheet, Hollins serves as a "chess piece" for the New England coaching staff. His size makes him one of the premier blocking wide receivers in the NFL, a trait that is essential for the Patriots' run-heavy schemes. His ability to clear lanes for the ground game while remaining a legitimate deep-ball threat allows the offense to remain unpredictable in high-stakes situations like the AFC Championship Game.
Impact on Drake Maye and the Passing Attack
The chemistry between Drake Maye and Hollins was a major storyline during the second half of the regular season. Maye, who has faced increased pressure in the pocket during the first two rounds of the playoffs, often looked to Hollins as a safety valve and a contested-catch specialist. With Hollins back in the fold, Maye regains a target who can win 50-50 balls and provide a massive catch radius in the red zone.
During Hollins' absence, the Patriots' offense has seen a slight dip in efficiency, ranking 10th among the 14 playoff teams in EPA (Expected Points Added) per play. While New England managed to grind out wins against the Chargers and Texans to reach this stage, the return of a veteran like Hollins could be the spark needed to overcome a stout Denver defense.
Injury Report: A Mixed Bag for New England
While the activation of Hollins is a major win for the offense, the Patriots' roster is not without its concerns heading into Sunday. The team officially ruled out star pass rusher Harold Landry III, who continues to struggle with a knee injury. Landry's absence is a blow to the defensive front, as he led the team with 8.5 sacks during the regular season.
However, there is good news in the secondary. Cornerback Carlton Davis III has cleared the league's concussion protocol and will not carry an injury designation into the game. Davis has been a lockdown presence for New England, recording two interceptions in the Divisional Round win over Houston. His availability will be crucial as the Patriots look to contain a Broncos offense that will be led by backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham following Bo Nix's season-ending ankle injury.
Looking Ahead to the AFC Championship Game
The stage is set for a classic postseason battle at Mile High. The Patriots are looking for their first-ever postseason victory in Denver, and they will have to do it in what forecasters are calling "brutal" winter weather. In a game where ball security and physical blocking will be paramount, the return of Mack Hollins could not have come at a better time.
Kickoff for the AFC Championship Game is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. ET on Sunday. With a trip to Santa Clara for the Super Bowl on the line, the Patriots are betting that the return of their veteran wideout will be the final piece of the puzzle.
Sources & Original Reporting