If the New England Patriots can keep their postseason run alive with a win over the Houston Texans this Sunday, they could be getting a timely boost to their receiving corps.
Veteran wideout Mack Hollins, who landed on injured reserve back on Dec. 27 with an abdominal injury, is eligible to return to practice starting Monday. That’s significant news for a Patriots offense that could use his presence heading into a potential AFC Championship matchup against the Denver Broncos.
While Hollins hasn’t been on the field, he hasn’t exactly disappeared, either. He’s remained a visible and vocal presence around the team, showing up on the sidelines during games and staying active in the locker room during media availability. According to Patriots receivers coach Todd Downing, Hollins has continued to contribute in the meeting rooms and on the mental side of the game.
“He’s around in all the meetings and we talk a lot about the things he might see with the upcoming opponent,” Downing said. “He’s been helping Efton (Chism III) with some stuff. He’s definitely staying around and involved.”
That kind of leadership and engagement matters - especially in the playoffs. Hollins isn’t just another body in the receiver room.
Before the injury, he was quietly one of the more productive pieces in New England’s offense. He finished the regular season third on the team in receptions (46) and fourth in receiving yards (550), despite missing the final two games against the Giants and Dolphins.
His size, physicality, and experience bring a different dimension to a Patriots receiving unit that has leaned heavily on young talent down the stretch. If he’s healthy enough to return, Hollins could be a valuable target in high-leverage situations - third downs, red zone looks, and anywhere else a veteran’s poise makes a difference.
Of course, all of this hinges on Sunday. Beat Houston, and Hollins has a shot to suit up for the AFC title game. Lose, and his season - like the Patriots’ - is done.
But if New England does advance, having a weapon like Hollins back in the mix could give this offense just a little more firepower at exactly the right time.