Carlton Davis Cleared for AFC Championship Return; Mack Hollins Trending Up
FOXBOROUGH - Just in time for the biggest game of the season, the Patriots are getting a key piece of their secondary back.
Cornerback Carlton Davis has officially cleared concussion protocol and is set to suit up for Sunday’s AFC Championship showdown. Davis went down during last week’s divisional-round win over the Texans and had been limited in practice earlier this week, wearing a red non-contact jersey on both Wednesday and Thursday. But Friday brought a welcome sight for New England fans - Davis back in his regular blue practice jersey, signaling he’s full go.
That’s a significant boost for a Patriots defense that’s been leaning heavily on its secondary throughout this playoff run. Davis brings physicality, press coverage skills, and veteran savvy to a unit that will need all hands on deck against a high-powered opposing offense. His return should help stabilize the back end and give the Patriots more flexibility in their matchups.
Meanwhile, there’s another potential reinforcement on the horizon - wide receiver Mack Hollins. Hollins, who’s been sidelined with an abdominal injury and spent the last four games on injured reserve, was back on the field for a second straight day and logged a full participation in Friday’s practice. He’s officially listed as questionable for Sunday, but the fact that he’s been a full participant is an encouraging sign.
Hollins isn’t the flashiest name on the roster, but his size, blocking ability, and special teams contributions make him a valuable depth piece - especially in a playoff setting where every snap matters. If he’s cleared to play, he could give the Patriots another wrinkle in their offensive game plan and help out in the third phase as well.
With a trip to the Super Bowl on the line, the Patriots are getting healthier at just the right time. Davis is back, Hollins is close, and New England’s roster looks as ready as it’s been all season for what promises to be a heavyweight AFC clash.