Mack Hollins Delivers in Super Bowl Spotlight, Years After Philly Start
While the Philadelphia Eagles may be watching this year’s Super Bowl from home, fans in Philly still had a rooting interest - and not just out of habit. A couple of familiar faces suited up on football’s biggest stage, and one in particular made sure his presence was felt.
Former Eagles wide receiver Mack Hollins, now with the New England Patriots, turned in a standout performance in the Super Bowl, reminding fans of the potential they once saw in him. Hollins led all Patriots receivers with four catches for 78 yards, including a crucial 35-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter that briefly gave New England life. That score cut into Seattle’s lead and brought the Patriots within striking distance at 19-7 - but the comeback ultimately fell short, as the Seahawks closed it out with a 29-13 win.
Still, Hollins’ performance was one of the brighter spots in a tough loss for New England. On a night when few things came easy for the Patriots’ offense, Hollins provided a spark - and on the biggest stage, no less.
From Special Teams to Super Bowl Starter
Hollins’ journey to this moment has been anything but linear. Drafted by the Eagles in the fourth round back in 2017, he carved out a role primarily on special teams and as a depth receiver. He contributed 226 receiving yards and a touchdown during his rookie campaign - a season that ended with the Eagles hoisting the Lombardi Trophy.
Injuries slowed his progress the following year. A groin issue sidelined him for the entire 2018 season, and by 2019, he was back on the field but never quite found his rhythm in the Eagles’ offense.
After 10 catches for 125 yards through 12 games, Philadelphia released him. He finished that season with the Miami Dolphins, and from there, began a new chapter.
Since leaving Philly, Hollins has quietly built a solid NFL career. He’s bounced around a bit - five teams in total - but over the last few seasons, he’s earned a reputation as a dependable WR3 who can step up when needed. He’s suited up for playoff-caliber teams like the Buffalo Bills and now the Patriots, and his 550-yard, two-touchdown campaign this season marked the second-best statistical year of his career.
A Player Eagles Fans Still Root For
In Philadelphia, Hollins may not have become a household name, but he left behind a fanbase that still pulls for him. Eagles fans never got to see his full potential in midnight green, but watching him shine in the Super Bowl - even in a Patriots uniform - brought a sense of pride.
Beyond the stat sheet, Hollins has become a bit of a cult favorite around the league. Known for his quirky pregame outfits and upbeat personality, he’s carved out a niche as one of the NFL’s more colorful characters. But make no mistake - he’s also a reliable, veteran receiver who’s earned his spot on the field.
For a player who once played a supporting role on a Super Bowl-winning team, Hollins now finds himself front and center on football’s biggest night. And even though the result didn’t go New England’s way, his performance was a reminder of how far he’s come - and how much he still has to offer.
Eagles fans may not have had a team to cheer for this February, but they still had a reason to watch. And for those who remember Hollins’ early days in Philly, seeing him make plays on the sport’s grandest stage was a win in its own right.