Posted on Dec 27

Patriots place WR Hollins on injured reserve; sign Pharms to 53-man roster

Posted Dec 27, 2025

The New England Patriots have placed wide receiver Mack Hollins on injured reserve due to an abdomen injury, impacting their offensive depth as they head into the final stretch of the regular season.

Why it matters: Hollins was a crucial component of the Patriots' passing game, ranking third on the team in both receptions and receiving yards. His absence could affect quarterback Drake Maye's effectiveness as he navigates key matchups in the Patriots' pursuit of playoff positioning.

Hollins played 68% of the team's offensive snaps, the highest among receivers, showcasing his integral role in their offensive schemes.
The Patriots currently sit at 12-3, having clinched a playoff berth, and need strong performances in their last two games to secure a top seed in the AFC.

What’s new: The Patriots have signed defensive tackle Jeremiah Pharms Jr. from the practice squad to fill Hollins' spot on the 53-man roster.

This move indicates the team's focus on bolstering their defense in light of Hollins’ absence, shifting their strategy in response to roster changes.
With players like Stefon Diggs leading the receiving corps, other young targets such as Kayshon Boutte and DeMario Douglas will likely vie for more significant roles.

Yes, but: While losing Hollins presents challenges, the Patriots still retain a robust receiving corps that can mitigate his absence.

Stefon Diggs has been the team's primary target, but players like Boutte and Douglas have shown promise and could step up under increased pressure.
Maye may also look to develop chemistry with these emerging receivers, potentially altering the dynamics of the offense.

What to watch: The coming weeks will reveal how the Patriots adapt their offensive scheme without Hollins.

Will they increase their reliance on Diggs, or will they implement more plays designed to exploit the strengths of their younger receivers?
How quickly Pharms can integrate into the defensive lineup may also be critical, especially as the playoffs approach.

The big picture: The Patriots are navigating a critical moment in their season, and Hollins’ injury highlights the importance of depth in professional football.

As teams vie for playoff spots, the ability to adapt to injuries can define postseason success.
Coach Mike Vrabel acknowledged Hollins' leadership and passion, emphasizing the emotional toll of losing a player who not only contributed statistically but also brought energy to the team.

The bottom line: As the Patriots gear up for the final games of the regular season, they must find ways to compensate for Hollins’ absence while maintaining their momentum.

The outcome of these adjustments will be pivotal as they seek to solidify their place among the AFC elite heading into the playoffs.

Patriots place WR Hollins on injured reserve; sign Pharms to 53-man roster

Alex Parker

Posted Dec 27, 2025

The New England Patriots have placed wide receiver Mack Hollins on injured reserve due to an abdomen injury, impacting their offensive depth as they head into the final stretch of the regular season.

Hollins played 68% of the team's offensive snaps, the highest among receivers, showcasing his integral role in their offensive schemes.

The Patriots currently sit at 12-3, having clinched a playoff berth, and need strong performances in their last two games to secure a top seed in the AFC.

What’s new: The Patriots have signed defensive tackle Jeremiah Pharms Jr. from the practice squad to fill Hollins' spot on the 53-man roster.

This move indicates the team's focus on bolstering their defense in light of Hollins’ absence, shifting their strategy in response to roster changes.

With players like Stefon Diggs leading the receiving corps, other young targets such as Kayshon Boutte and DeMario Douglas will likely vie for more significant roles.

Yes, but: While losing Hollins presents challenges, the Patriots still retain a robust receiving corps that can mitigate his absence.

Stefon Diggs has been the team's primary target, but players like Boutte and Douglas have shown promise and could step up under increased pressure.

Maye may also look to develop chemistry with these emerging receivers, potentially altering the dynamics of the offense.

What to watch: The coming weeks will reveal how the Patriots adapt their offensive scheme without Hollins.

Will they increase their reliance on Diggs, or will they implement more plays designed to exploit the strengths of their younger receivers?

How quickly Pharms can integrate into the defensive lineup may also be critical, especially as the playoffs approach.

The big picture: The Patriots are navigating a critical moment in their season, and Hollins’ injury highlights the importance of depth in professional football.

As teams vie for playoff spots, the ability to adapt to injuries can define postseason success.

Coach Mike Vrabel acknowledged Hollins' leadership and passion, emphasizing the emotional toll of losing a player who not only contributed statistically but also brought energy to the team.

The bottom line: As the Patriots gear up for the final games of the regular season, they must find ways to compensate for Hollins’ absence while maintaining their momentum.

The outcome of these adjustments will be pivotal as they seek to solidify their place among the AFC elite heading into the playoffs.