Mack Hollins injury update: Is Patriots WR playing today vs. Texans?

The New England Patriots are getting ready for a big AFC Divisional Round game against the Houston Texans, but they won't have one of their most reliable and energetic players. Mack Hollins, a veteran wide receiver, has been a fan favorite this season because of his blocking, hustling, and big-play attitude. But all week, people have been asking about whether or not he will be able to participate in the playoff game on Sunday.

Here is the latest update on Hollins’ injury status and what it means for New England.

Is Mack Hollins playing today?

No, Mack Hollins will not play today against the Houston Texans.

The Patriots have officially ruled Hollins out after he remained on injured reserve with an abdominal injury. He picked up the injury in Week 16 of the regular season and has now missed four straight games, including the Wild Card Round.



While he has stayed involved with team meetings and has been present on the sidelines, he has not yet been cleared to return to game action. Under NFL rules, a player must miss at least four games after being placed on injured reserve before becoming eligible to return. Hollins has now reached that minimum, but the Patriots have chosen not to activate him for this divisional-round matchup.

That decision suggests the team is prioritising his long-term health, especially with the possibility of an AFC Championship Game next week if New England advances.

Without him the Patriots will likely rely on other receivers they know well, such as Stefon Diggs, DeMario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte, Kyle Williams, and Efton Chism. In the last several weeks, the group has done a great job of helping rookie quarterback Drake Maye keep his rhythm and balance in the passing game.


Head coach Mike Vrabel has praised Hollins for remaining engaged despite being sidelined, noting that his experience has helped younger receivers with preparation and film study.

How to watch the Patriots vs. Texans game?

The AFC Divisional Round showdown between the New England Patriots and the Houston Texans promises to be one of the most competitive games of the weekend. Here is how you can watch the game:

• TIme: 3:00 PM ET
• Location: Foxborough, Massachusetts, at Gillette Stadium
• TV Broadcast: ESPN
• Streaming: ESPN app, NFL+, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and Fubo

The Patriots will try to make up for Hollins' absence with depth, discipline, and good execution as the playoffs get more intense and a spot in the AFC Championship is on the line. While his return could still be possible later in the postseason. For now New England’s focus remains firmly on getting past Houston and keeping their Super Bowl hopes alive.



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