Overview
- Mack Hollins returned to practice on Wednesday, which started the NFL 21‑day window that allows the Patriots to activate him from injured reserve or place him back on season‑ending IR.
- If the team activates Hollins during that window he could play as soon as Sunday against the Green Bay Packers, though activation requires creating an open 53‑man roster spot.
- Quarterback Drake Maye praised Hollins’ leadership, blocking and reliability after the practice and coaches view him as a stabilizing veteran presence for a thin receiver room.
- Key offensive contributors remain limited or out on the first Week 9 report, including A.J. Brown (ankle/knee) and tight end Hunter Henry, so Hollins’ availability would materially affect game planning and personnel packages.
- By designating Hollins and Greg Van Roten to return the Patriots have used four of their eight regular‑season IR‑return slots, which narrows flexibility for future injury recoveries and will shape activation timing and roster moves.