The New England Patriots' postseason run is off to a great start, even if the first two playoff games happened without wide receiver Mack Hollins. The veteran playmaker has been sidelined with an abdominal injury that held him out of the Wild Card and Divisional Rounds, leaving Patriots fans to wonder if Hollins can get healthy in time to take on the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship Game.
Unfortunately, the latest news surrounding his status isn't encouraging. According to ESPN's Mike Reiss, Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel told reporters that Hollins "will not start practicing (on Wednesday)." Although that doesn't mean that the 32-year-old WR won't face the Broncos, this paints a very bleak picture for Hollins' outlook this week.
Mack Hollins' Outlook Is Murkier Than Ever as Patriots Prepare for AFCCG
Hollins last played on Dec. 21, suffering an abdominal injury that has now officially kept him sidelined for a month. It is a frustration due to what Hollins brings to a New England team that badly misses his physicality. While Hollins has been a surprise producer in the passing attack, offering 550 receiving yards on 46 catches, his physicality and energy in the offensive huddle play key roles in the Patriots' aerial attack.
Hollins fights on every play, whether it is a chance for him to touch the football or blocking for one of New England's backs, the same level of effort is brought. In today's league, this is a skillset that cannot be taken for granted, pointing to how important Hollins is if the Patriots are able to survive the next round.
If Hollins can't suit up against the Broncos, the Patriots will turn to depth receivers like Kyle Williams, DeMario Douglas, and Efton Chism to fill his void. Even in a group effort, the trio might not be able to replicate what the injured wideout brings to the table.
For Patriots fans, Hollins is the missing piece that would erase any remaining doubts that this team has a feeling of destiny. Already, it is fair to wonder if this could be the start of a new dynasty, and for that to happen, the franchise obviously needs Hollins back in the lineup to help finish out a Super Bowl run.
A scenario that is growing increasingly concerning as Hollins has missed the last month of the season and isn't showing any signs of returning to the lineup. It is a story to keep a close eye on as we continue to close in on the AFC Championship and a chance for the Pats to return to AFC dominance.