Patriots Receive Boost With Mack Hollins Practicing Ahead of AFC Championship

The New England Patriots received encouraging news on Friday as wide receiver Mack Hollins participated fully in practice ahead of the AFC Championship Game. Hollins, in his ninth NFL season and first with New England, had been sidelined due to an abdomen injury that kept him out of the final weeks of the regular season and the team’s first two playoff games.

His return represents a potential boost for a Patriots offense eager to make an impact against the Denver Broncos. Hollins’ presence could provide a deep-threat option that New England has missed during his absence. The team’s medical staff and coaching staff monitored his progress closely, with his full participation marking a key milestone in his recovery.

According to reporter Mike Reiss, the Patriots must decide by Saturday at 4 p.m. ET whether to activate Hollins from injured reserve for the championship game. This decision will have significant implications for New England’s offensive strategy and their ability to compete at a high level.

The Patriots enter the game seeking to end a Super Bowl drought that has persisted since Tom Brady’s departure. Adding Hollins to the active roster could be a critical piece in their effort to return to the league’s pinnacle.

1. Hollins’ Impact on Offense

Mack Hollins emerged as a reliable target for the Patriots during the 2025 regular season. He recorded 46 receptions for 550 yards and two touchdowns, marking a notable improvement over his previous campaigns with the Atlanta Falcons and Buffalo Bills. Known primarily as a deep-threat receiver, Hollins stretched defenses and created opportunities for his teammates. His ability to track downfield passes and make contested catches added a dimension to the Patriots’ offense that has been missing in the postseason. During his absence in the Wild Card and Divisional Round games, New England had to adjust its passing schemes and rely on other receivers to fill the void. The team’s offense performed admirably but lacked the consistent vertical threat Hollins provides. If activated, Hollins could be a decisive factor in New England’s game plan against Denver, forcing the Broncos’ secondary to account for his speed and field-stretching ability on every down.

2. Road to Recovery

Hollins’ return from injury has been carefully managed by the Patriots’ medical and training staff. After limited participation in Thursday’s practice, he progressed to full drills on Friday, signaling that he is close to game-ready condition. The abdomen injury kept him sidelined for several critical weeks, highlighting the team’s cautious approach to ensure his long-term health. This measured recovery process reflects the importance of Hollins’ role in the offense and the team’s commitment to fielding a healthy roster for the championship. Coach Bill Belichick and his staff will evaluate Hollins in practice leading up to the activation deadline, weighing the potential benefits of his presence against any lingering risk from the injury. His participation in high-intensity drills offers a strong indication that he could see the field against Denver. Ultimately, Hollins’ recovery not only affects his individual contribution but also influences overall offensive rhythm, spacing, and the Patriots’ play-calling options heading into a high-stakes matchup.

3. Championship Outlook

The Patriots are preparing to travel to Denver for the AFC Championship on Jan. 25 at 3 p.m. ET. Their goal is to secure the conference title and advance to Super Bowl 60, ending a stretch without a league championship since the 2018-19 season. Hollins’ potential activation adds another layer of optimism for New England, complementing a roster that has demonstrated resilience and adaptability throughout the playoffs. His presence could also alleviate pressure on quarterback Drake Maye, providing a reliable target downfield in critical situations. New England’s coaching staff is focused on fine-tuning the offensive game plan, balancing the integration of Hollins with existing personnel while preparing for Denver’s defensive schemes. The team’s success may hinge on their ability to exploit mismatches and maintain explosive plays in the passing game. As the Patriots wrap up final preparations, the addition of Hollins could be a defining factor in their pursuit of the Super Bowl, giving them an opportunity to showcase depth, versatility, and championship-caliber execution.