Mack Hollins will not be playing in today’s crucial AFC Divisional Round game as the New England Patriots face off against the Houston Texans. The veteran wide receiver has been ruled out after remaining on injured reserve due to an abdominal injury sustained in Week 16 of the regular season. This injury has sidelined him for four consecutive games, including the recent Wild Card Round.
While Hollins has been actively engaged in team meetings and present on the sidelines, he has not yet received medical clearance to return to the field. NFL rules stipulate that players on injured reserve must miss a minimum of four games before they can be activated, and although Hollins has met this requirement, the Patriots have opted not to bring him back for this critical matchup. This decision underlines the team’s commitment to his long-term health, especially with a potential AFC Championship Game on the horizon if they advance past the Texans.
In Hollins’ absence, the Patriots are likely to turn to other reliable receivers such as Stefon Diggs, DeMario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte, Kyle Williams, and Efton Chism. This group has been instrumental in supporting rookie quarterback Drake Maye over the past few weeks, maintaining a steady rhythm in the passing game. Head coach Mike Vrabel has commended Hollins for his commitment to the team, emphasizing how his experience continues to benefit younger players through preparation and film study.
The Patriots will face the Texans at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, with kickoff scheduled for 3:00 PM ET. Fans can watch the highly anticipated game on ESPN or stream it via several platforms, including the ESPN app, NFL+, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and Fubo. As the playoffs intensify, the Patriots are determined to execute their game plan effectively and keep their Super Bowl hopes alive, potentially paving the way for Hollins’ return later in the postseason.