Patriots Do Good By Mack Hollins With Added Bonus

Hollins’ blend of size, speed and strength were a much-needed and welcomes addition within the Patriots lineup. At his best, he is an apt blocker, capable of making an impact in the run game as well as aiding in pass protection. With a frame of 6’4", 221-pounds, the Rockville, Virginia native also cuts an imposing figure that has made him a popular target in the red zone. He fininshed the regular season with 46 catches for 550 yards and two touchdowns. Hollins added six catches for 129 yards and one touchdown in two playoff appearances with the Pats this postseason. The UNC product’s ability to play multiple positions within New England’s offense clearly earned him the attention of opposing defenses.

Unfortunately, the Pats were without the services for the popular pass-catcher for the final two games of the regular season due to his being placed on injured reserve with an abdominal injury — likley causing him to fall short of the aforementioned contract incentive. He suffered the injury in the week leading up to New England’s Week 17 game against the New York Jets. Despite missing their wild card round victory over the Los Angeles Chargers, as well as their divisional round won over the Houston Texans, Hollins returned for the AFC championship game against the Denver Broncos. He was a full participant in the team’s Super Bowl LX loss to the Seattle Seahawks.

Perhaps as important as his on-field prowess, is the ex-Tar Heel’s work ethic — a trait which has already endeared him to his new head coach. As such, Hollins’ skill set and eccentric personality and habits — which include walking around barefoot as much as possible, and eating without utensils — has helped the man who has earned the nickname “Tarzan” continue to tame New England’s receivers room this season, and potentially beyond this weekend’s clash the the AFC’s best.