One recent free-agent signing by the Patriots has flown under the radar but could prove to be a valuable addition. While much of the focus has been on big-ticket signings like Milton Williams, Carlton Davis III, and Robert Spillane, a lesser-known wide receiver could also be a great asset. That player is Mack Hollins, a 31-year-old, eight-year veteran most recently with the Buffalo Bills. Buffalo fans aren’t thrilled about his departure (proof that sometimes addition by subtraction works!). Hollins provides much-needed depth to a Patriots’ receiving corps that lacks star power. While he might not be a top-tier No. 1 or No. 2 receiver, he can still bring solid contributions both at wide receiver and in other areas.
In this piece, we’ll explore how this under-the-radar player could prove his worth, justifying the Patriots’ reasonable two-year, $8.4 million investment, including $3.5 million guaranteed. With Mack Hollins, the overall impact of his skills should exceed what initially appears.
The Patriots signed Hollins to add big-play potential to their offense. His 2024 stats might not be eye-popping—he caught just 31 passes on 50 targets—but there’s more to his game than just numbers. With a career average of 12.8 yards per catch (12.2 last season), he consistently makes plays when given the chance.
In 2024, Mack Hollins caught 31 passes, with 25 of those resulting in first downs—critical plays that extend drives and ultimately lead to scoring opportunities. The Patriots’ need for playmakers at the wide receiver position is clear, with only Pop Douglas really standing out in that regard. Interestingly, Marcus Jones also has potential but has been used primarily on defense.
Hollins further proves his value with his ability to score, as five of his 31 catches in 2024 turned into touchdowns. This solid ratio suggests that Drake Maye should target him in or near the red zone, where Hollins can make an impact.
With these stats, Hollins could be a valuable asset for Maye and the Patriots’ passing game, should he get the chance. In the previous season, Hollins started 13 games and played in 720 snaps (66% of the Bills’ offensive snaps) in Josh Allen’s offense.
While Hollins may not be a top-tier NFL player, he’s a big target who consistently makes plays. In the same way Mike Vrabel has bolstered his defense with strong free-agent signings, Hollins brings much-needed playmaking ability to the offense, albeit as a quieter addition.
In addition to his offensive contributions, Hollins plays special teams, having logged 100 special team plays in 2024. Teams that succeed make the most of all their players’ skills, a principle that Vrabel knows well.
Though Vrabel made his mark as an edge player and goal-line tight end, catching touchdown passes from Tom Brady, Hollins could similarly be asked to contribute in areas outside his main role as a wide receiver if it helps the team win.
The Patriots lack a clear No. 1 or No. 2 wide receiver, and Hollins won’t fill either of those roles. Vrabel will need to address those spots elsewhere. However, Hollins can contribute as a solid No. 3 or 2B receiver, as well as a third-down and red zone threat. Not every player needs to be a Pro Bowler, but it’s players like Hollins who help create winning teams. And that’s the ultimate goal.
