The worst-case scenario has come true for Mack Hollins and the Patriots

Trouble is piling up for the New England Patriots. On Saturday, the team confirmed that wide receiver Mack Hollins had been placed on the injured reserve list—a significant loss for an offense already missing its top option.

The veteran had seen his role expand dramatically after A.J. Brown was sidelined with a high ankle sprain in the season opener. Hollins had since established himself as the offense's go-to receiver, leading the team with 15 catches and 209 receiving yards.

His injury occurred in the third quarter of last Sunday's victory over the Buffalo Bills. He was seen leaving the field hopping on his right foot, and the organization later cited a calf issue. On Wednesday, the player—now in his tenth NFL season—said he was putting all his energy into his rehabilitation, while acknowledging that an experienced player sometimes needs to know when to hold back.

As a direct result, the Patriots (2-2) will have only four wide receivers in uniform on Sunday when they host the Las Vegas Raiders (3-1). Romeo Doubs, DeMario Douglas, Efton Chism III, and Kyle Williams will have to carry the load. There is some good news on the horizon, however: Brown, who has been spending more time in the locker room in recent weeks, could be activated as early as next week.

An Overflowing Injury List

Hollins isn't the only one heading to the injured reserve list. Safety Reggie Gilliam joins him there, bringing the total number of players placed on that list since the start of the season to 19. That's already more than during the entire 2025 season, which nonetheless ended with a surprising Super Bowl appearance.

The situation is just as critical on defense. Four cornerbacks have been ruled out of the game, including starters Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis III. To make up for these absences, veteran Kindle Vildor has been promoted from the practice squad to the 53-man roster.

Special teams specialist Brenden Schooler has also been activated, while linebacker K.J. Britt and rookie safety Elliott Davison have been recalled for the game.

Created by humans, assisted by AI.