Former Bills Mack Hollins turns barefoot heel by agreeing to terms with hated division rival in NFL Free Agency

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Jon Helmkamp | Last updated Mar 10, 2025 10:47 PM ET

When the Buffalo Bills agreed to terms with former Chargers wide receiver Josh Palmer , the future for Mack Hollins in Buffalo looked bleak. A few hours later, it was reported that the valuable special teamer and culture glue guy is turning heel, agreeing to terms with the hated division rival New England Patriots.

For Bills fans, it's going to hurt. "Tarzan," as he became known thanks to his barefooted ways, became a fan favorite in his one season in Buffalo. Having to go up against him in New England is going to sting.

Patriots have agreed to terms with WR Mack Hollins on a two-year, $8.4 million deal that maxes out at $10.4 million. (via @MikeGarafolo) pic.twitter.com/NmK4A3T5Bu
— NFL (@NFL) March 10, 2025

"The New England patriots are in need of depth at the wide receiver position and Hollins is a solid guy to bring in," A to Z Sports' Patriots reporter Sophie Weller said. "Throughout free agency, the Patriots have been targeting players that they have a history with, and Hollins has a past with offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. Hollins is familiar with McDaniels offense, which will help this young receiver room as they have to learn a whole new system. And it's a very team friendly deal, leaving room for New England to still bring in a top receiver."

At two years, $8.4 million, it's a minimal investment for an experiences and gritty wide receiver that's an incredible blocker, and played meaningful snaps on special teams. One of the hardest hits by a bills player in the 2024 NFL Playoffs was laid down on punt coverage against the Denver Broncos by Hollins.

The Bills could potentially still be in the market for one more wide receiver, especially if free agent Amari Cooper goes elsewhere, while the Patriots have plenty of needs to surround their young franchise quarterback Drake Maye.