1 hr. ago
STATESBORO, Ga. (AP) — Max Johnson threw for 281 yards, three Eagles scored rushing touchdowns, and Georgia Southern cruised past FCS member Charleston Southern 31-0 on Saturday night.
Johnson was 28-for-39 passing and Ashton Hollins caught eight passes for 106 yards and a score. Jamarian Samuel, Ty **** s, and Weston Bryan each scored on the ground.
The Eagles scored touchdowns on each of their first three opening drives in the first quarter to take a 21-0 lead.
Samuel capped off the opening drive with a 7-yard rush, Hollins reeled in a 59-yard scoring grab, and Bryan punched it in from one yard out before the end of the quarter.
The Eagles defense held Charleston Southern to 35 yards of total offense. The Buccaneers had just four drives that lasted longer than four plays.
#hollins
Johnson was 28-for-39 passing and Ashton Hollins caught eight passes for 106 yards and a score. Jamarian Samuel, Ty **** s, and Weston Bryan each scored on the ground.
The Eagles scored touchdowns on each of their first three opening drives in the first quarter to take a 21-0 lead.
Samuel capped off the opening drive with a 7-yard rush, Hollins reeled in a 59-yard scoring grab, and Bryan punched it in from one yard out before the end of the quarter.
The Eagles defense held Charleston Southern to 35 yards of total offense. The Buccaneers had just four drives that lasted longer than four plays.
#hollins
2 days ago
In each of the past two seasons, Kayshon Boutte ranked second in receiving yards among Patriots wideouts and first or tied for first in receiving touchdowns. His reward? A trade to Houston.
The Patriots traded for A.J. Brown in the offseason, signed free agent Romeo Doubs and brought back DeMario Douglas, Kyle Williams and Mack Hollins. That left Boutte as the odd receiver out, and Patriots coach Mike Vrabel said in explaining the trade that Boutte "probably would have been inactive" on game days if he had remained in New England.
Boutte responded Thursday.
"They did pay two guys to come in and do that job," Boutte said, via Timothy Rapp of the Bleacher Report. "Sadly, it is the way it is. Being that it's a contract year for me, I [sought] a bigger role. I feel like what Vrabes said in his media interview, it wasn't nothing bad. I wouldn't say I'll use that as fuel. . . . It was an honest opinion. He sat there, talked, [spoke] his truth, and [we'll] pretty much move forward from it."
The Texans needed a receiver after losing Jayden Higgins to a season-ending torn ACL last month. Boutte, who has 76 receptions for 1,140 yards and nine touchdowns over the past two seasons, joins Nico Collins, Xavier Hutchinson, Jaylin Noel and Jared Wayne in the wide receivers room.
#seasons
The Patriots traded for A.J. Brown in the offseason, signed free agent Romeo Doubs and brought back DeMario Douglas, Kyle Williams and Mack Hollins. That left Boutte as the odd receiver out, and Patriots coach Mike Vrabel said in explaining the trade that Boutte "probably would have been inactive" on game days if he had remained in New England.
Boutte responded Thursday.
"They did pay two guys to come in and do that job," Boutte said, via Timothy Rapp of the Bleacher Report. "Sadly, it is the way it is. Being that it's a contract year for me, I [sought] a bigger role. I feel like what Vrabes said in his media interview, it wasn't nothing bad. I wouldn't say I'll use that as fuel. . . . It was an honest opinion. He sat there, talked, [spoke] his truth, and [we'll] pretty much move forward from it."
The Texans needed a receiver after losing Jayden Higgins to a season-ending torn ACL last month. Boutte, who has 76 receptions for 1,140 yards and nine touchdowns over the past two seasons, joins Nico Collins, Xavier Hutchinson, Jaylin Noel and Jared Wayne in the wide receivers room.
#seasons
8 days ago
The Houston Texans traded for Kayshon Boutte this week with hopes that he will be a solid No. 2 receiver for them behind Nico Collins. That's why it was a little shocking to hear Mike Vrabel say Thursday night that if the New England Patriots hadn't dealt Boutte, he likely wouldn't have seen the field for them because of their improved depth at the position.
Boutte's 33 receptions last season was fifth on the Patriots squad, although two of the players ahead of him were tight end Hunter Henry and running back TreVeyon Henderson. His 551 yards was third on the team and his six touchdown catches was second. Still, in the offseason, the Patriots traded for three-time Pro Bowl receiver A.J. Brown and signed former Packers receiver A.J. Doubs as a free agent. Those two are going to be New England's top options at receiver with DeMario Douglas also expected to get plenty of time. The backups are Mack Hollins and Kyle Williams, who both play special teams, something Boutte hasn't done since he entered the league in 2023.
"It was one place where we do have some depth," Vrabel told reporters after the Patriots' final preseason game Thursday night. "I think for all parties involved, that was probably the best thing. Without injuries, Kayshon probably would've been inactive, unfortunately. Just kind of the way it was with him not playing special teams."
The Texans traded a 2028 seventh-round pick and second-year safety Jaylen Reed for Boutte earlier this week, a few days after losing their No. 2 receiver Jayden Higgins to injury.
Boutte, who caught a touchdown over Texans' All-Pro cornerback Derek Stingley Jr., in last season's playoff game, was with the team this week in Charlotte, N.C., for a joint practice with the Carolina Panthers, but didn't participate in team drills, instead working off to the side with a trainer.
#receiver #traded #kayshon
Boutte's 33 receptions last season was fifth on the Patriots squad, although two of the players ahead of him were tight end Hunter Henry and running back TreVeyon Henderson. His 551 yards was third on the team and his six touchdown catches was second. Still, in the offseason, the Patriots traded for three-time Pro Bowl receiver A.J. Brown and signed former Packers receiver A.J. Doubs as a free agent. Those two are going to be New England's top options at receiver with DeMario Douglas also expected to get plenty of time. The backups are Mack Hollins and Kyle Williams, who both play special teams, something Boutte hasn't done since he entered the league in 2023.
"It was one place where we do have some depth," Vrabel told reporters after the Patriots' final preseason game Thursday night. "I think for all parties involved, that was probably the best thing. Without injuries, Kayshon probably would've been inactive, unfortunately. Just kind of the way it was with him not playing special teams."
The Texans traded a 2028 seventh-round pick and second-year safety Jaylen Reed for Boutte earlier this week, a few days after losing their No. 2 receiver Jayden Higgins to injury.
Boutte, who caught a touchdown over Texans' All-Pro cornerback Derek Stingley Jr., in last season's playoff game, was with the team this week in Charlotte, N.C., for a joint practice with the Carolina Panthers, but didn't participate in team drills, instead working off to the side with a trainer.
#receiver #traded #kayshon
9 days ago
Had Kayshon Boutte remained on the Patriots' roster for Week 1 against the Seattle Seahawks, he would have been inactive.
Head coach Mike Vrabel revealed that detail Thursday night, speaking for the first time since Boutte was traded to the Houston Texans on Monday.
"That was one place where we do have some depth, and I think for all parties involved, that was probably the best thing," Vrabel told reporters in Cleveland. "Without injuries, Kayshon probably would have been inactive. Unfortunately, it just, it's kind of the way it was. It's just with him not playing special teams."
As Vrabel noted, New England's wide receiver room is the deepest position on the roster, with A.J. Brown, Romeo Doubs, DeMario Douglas, Mack Hollins, Kyle Williams and Efton Chism. All six are expected to be on the team's 53-man roster.
The Patriots added both Brown and Doubs to the mix this offseason, pushing Boutte down the depth chart. Vrabel made sure to show appreciation for Boutte, as he often did throughout last season.
#boutte #doubs #depth
Head coach Mike Vrabel revealed that detail Thursday night, speaking for the first time since Boutte was traded to the Houston Texans on Monday.
"That was one place where we do have some depth, and I think for all parties involved, that was probably the best thing," Vrabel told reporters in Cleveland. "Without injuries, Kayshon probably would have been inactive. Unfortunately, it just, it's kind of the way it was. It's just with him not playing special teams."
As Vrabel noted, New England's wide receiver room is the deepest position on the roster, with A.J. Brown, Romeo Doubs, DeMario Douglas, Mack Hollins, Kyle Williams and Efton Chism. All six are expected to be on the team's 53-man roster.
The Patriots added both Brown and Doubs to the mix this offseason, pushing Boutte down the depth chart. Vrabel made sure to show appreciation for Boutte, as he often did throughout last season.
#boutte #doubs #depth
16 days ago
Let's get to the Philadelphia Eagles news and links …
Eagles-Patriots joint practices Day 2: Jalen Hurts finishes strong, Jalyx Hunt turns heads – PHLY
Throughout the first two full team periods, the pattern when the starters were on the field was consistent. When Drake Maye threw the ball, the Patriots moved the ball. When the Patriots ran the ball, the Eagles defensive line dominated. I counted one semi-successful run, which led to some light pushing and shoving when Nolan Smith took exception to Rhamondre Stevenson lowering his shoulder on Cooper DeJean. On one rep, Jalyx Hunt simply grabbed the ball from Stevenson's grasp in the backfield for an instant turnover. Talking with Patriots reporters after practice, their No. 1 takeaway was that Hunt looks like a superstar.
Patriots-Eagles joint practice recap: Defenses fight back on Day 2 – Pats Pulpit
Red zone woes: Improving in the red zone is an area of focus for the Patriots this season after struggling as a unit last year. On Thursday, the inconsistencies continued even though Drake Maye and Co. started strong with touchdowns to Mack Hollins and A.J. Brown on a contested catch over Quinyon Mitchell. From there, pressure became more of an issue and Maye was late targeting Brown along the goal line which led to a long pick-six by Riq Woolen. Maye's end-of-game drive then ended on one play as a slant to Brown was broken up with the ball popping up into the air and Jalyx Hunt recording an interception. The unit was given a second chance which ended better with a touchdown to Romeo Doubs. "Felt like we could have done more in the red zone," Maye said after practice. "That's something for us to learn. It's one of our focuses this year… so we got some work to do." […] Will Campbell and Caleb Lomu each split their 1-on-1 reps. Campbell continued to have some issues in pass pro against Jalyx Hunt, who is a breakout candidate for the Eagles this year, but did have a nice stunt pickup with Alijah Vera-Tucker to lead to Romeo Doubs' touchdown.
Eagles-Patriots Practice Notes: Jalen Hurts finishes strong, defense bounces back – BGN
Speaking of Jalyx Hunt, he produced two takeaways today. In addition to the pick, there was a rep where he simply stole the ball away from Rhamondre Stevenson's hands for an instant forced fumble and recovery. I love the aesthetic of that kind of play where the ball doesn't even touch the ground. Hunt is a beast. He's had an awesome summer.
Welcome to the NFC East Mixtape Feed! – SB Nation
As the 2026 NFL season draws near, SB Nation is launching a new discussion community focused on the sport's most historic division. The NFC East Mixtape Feed will be a spot for fans of the Commanders, Giants, Cowboys and Eagles to discuss the latest divisional news, share their takes about their favorite team and, of course, talk a little smack.
#Eagles #hunt #practice
Eagles-Patriots joint practices Day 2: Jalen Hurts finishes strong, Jalyx Hunt turns heads – PHLY
Throughout the first two full team periods, the pattern when the starters were on the field was consistent. When Drake Maye threw the ball, the Patriots moved the ball. When the Patriots ran the ball, the Eagles defensive line dominated. I counted one semi-successful run, which led to some light pushing and shoving when Nolan Smith took exception to Rhamondre Stevenson lowering his shoulder on Cooper DeJean. On one rep, Jalyx Hunt simply grabbed the ball from Stevenson's grasp in the backfield for an instant turnover. Talking with Patriots reporters after practice, their No. 1 takeaway was that Hunt looks like a superstar.
Patriots-Eagles joint practice recap: Defenses fight back on Day 2 – Pats Pulpit
Red zone woes: Improving in the red zone is an area of focus for the Patriots this season after struggling as a unit last year. On Thursday, the inconsistencies continued even though Drake Maye and Co. started strong with touchdowns to Mack Hollins and A.J. Brown on a contested catch over Quinyon Mitchell. From there, pressure became more of an issue and Maye was late targeting Brown along the goal line which led to a long pick-six by Riq Woolen. Maye's end-of-game drive then ended on one play as a slant to Brown was broken up with the ball popping up into the air and Jalyx Hunt recording an interception. The unit was given a second chance which ended better with a touchdown to Romeo Doubs. "Felt like we could have done more in the red zone," Maye said after practice. "That's something for us to learn. It's one of our focuses this year… so we got some work to do." […] Will Campbell and Caleb Lomu each split their 1-on-1 reps. Campbell continued to have some issues in pass pro against Jalyx Hunt, who is a breakout candidate for the Eagles this year, but did have a nice stunt pickup with Alijah Vera-Tucker to lead to Romeo Doubs' touchdown.
Eagles-Patriots Practice Notes: Jalen Hurts finishes strong, defense bounces back – BGN
Speaking of Jalyx Hunt, he produced two takeaways today. In addition to the pick, there was a rep where he simply stole the ball away from Rhamondre Stevenson's hands for an instant forced fumble and recovery. I love the aesthetic of that kind of play where the ball doesn't even touch the ground. Hunt is a beast. He's had an awesome summer.
Welcome to the NFC East Mixtape Feed! – SB Nation
As the 2026 NFL season draws near, SB Nation is launching a new discussion community focused on the sport's most historic division. The NFC East Mixtape Feed will be a spot for fans of the Commanders, Giants, Cowboys and Eagles to discuss the latest divisional news, share their takes about their favorite team and, of course, talk a little smack.
#Eagles #hunt #practice
16 days ago
Ahead of joint practices with the Philadelphia Eagles this week, Drake Maye turned on the film from two years ago.
During Maye's rookie season, the Eagles came to Foxboro for joint practices. With an Eagles team that went on to win the Super Bowl matching up against the Patriots team that fired their coach and won four games, the results were exactly what you expected.
"I was watching some of those plays earlier in the week. I was just laughing," Maye recalled. "I motioned somebody who was coming forward and snapped it, and then there was a penalty, and little things like that, that we were laughing about — just how far we have come."
Now as reigning AFC Champions, the Patriots held their ground with a competitive two days of practices. That included Drake Maye completing his first 13 passes in a row on Wednesday as his connection with A.J. Brown continues to grow.
On Thursday in the red zone, it was tougher sledder for Maye and the Patriots. The quarterback still found touchdowns to Mack Hollins, Brown, and Romeo Doubs, but clearly had a handful of plays he'd like back.
#maye #Eagles #practices #team
During Maye's rookie season, the Eagles came to Foxboro for joint practices. With an Eagles team that went on to win the Super Bowl matching up against the Patriots team that fired their coach and won four games, the results were exactly what you expected.
"I was watching some of those plays earlier in the week. I was just laughing," Maye recalled. "I motioned somebody who was coming forward and snapped it, and then there was a penalty, and little things like that, that we were laughing about — just how far we have come."
Now as reigning AFC Champions, the Patriots held their ground with a competitive two days of practices. That included Drake Maye completing his first 13 passes in a row on Wednesday as his connection with A.J. Brown continues to grow.
On Thursday in the red zone, it was tougher sledder for Maye and the Patriots. The quarterback still found touchdowns to Mack Hollins, Brown, and Romeo Doubs, but clearly had a handful of plays he'd like back.
#maye #Eagles #practices #team
27 days ago
New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel will have a tough decision on his hands at wide receiver when cutting the roster down to 53 players.
There are at least seven viable options at the position for the team to keep around.
A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs are expected to be the top two players on the depth chart. If Kayshon Boutte hasn't been traded, he's arguably still the team's best deep-threat option. DeMario Douglas has worked with the starters as the top slot option, while Mack Hollins is the best blocking wide receiver and another viable deep threat. Efton Chism III is a rapidly improving slot option, and Kyle Williams is a 2025 third-round draft pick with blistering speed.
If it came down to it, Vrabel was asked if he would consider keeping all seven receivers on the roster.
"Sure," Vrabel told media members.
#vrabel #receiver #seven #best
There are at least seven viable options at the position for the team to keep around.
A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs are expected to be the top two players on the depth chart. If Kayshon Boutte hasn't been traded, he's arguably still the team's best deep-threat option. DeMario Douglas has worked with the starters as the top slot option, while Mack Hollins is the best blocking wide receiver and another viable deep threat. Efton Chism III is a rapidly improving slot option, and Kyle Williams is a 2025 third-round draft pick with blistering speed.
If it came down to it, Vrabel was asked if he would consider keeping all seven receivers on the roster.
"Sure," Vrabel told media members.
#vrabel #receiver #seven #best
1 month ago
Coming off five straight full-pads practices separated by one off-day, the New England Patriots will turn down the intensity on Wednesday. Their 10th practice of training camp will be taking pace at a walkthrough pace.
Here's what you need to know about the session.
Unlike Tuesday's practice, Wednesday's walkthrough will be closed to the public. The next opportunities to visit Patriots training camp will come Thursday and Friday.
10 a.m. ET: Practice (walkthrough)
ca. 12:15 p.m. ET: Player availability (QB Drake Maye, FB Reggie Gilliam, WR Mack Hollins, OT Morgan Moses, LG Alijah Vera-Tucker, P Bryce Baringer)
#camp #unlike
Here's what you need to know about the session.
Unlike Tuesday's practice, Wednesday's walkthrough will be closed to the public. The next opportunities to visit Patriots training camp will come Thursday and Friday.
10 a.m. ET: Practice (walkthrough)
ca. 12:15 p.m. ET: Player availability (QB Drake Maye, FB Reggie Gilliam, WR Mack Hollins, OT Morgan Moses, LG Alijah Vera-Tucker, P Bryce Baringer)
#camp #unlike
1 month ago
After one day without an audience, the New England Patriots returned to the fields behind Gillette Stadium on Tuesday for their ninth practice of training camp. The fans were treated to an entertaining session.
To recap it, please visit our Patriots training camp notebook. In the meantime, here is who caught our eye during the two-hour session.
The deep passing game: Kayshon Boutte, A.J. Brown and Mack Hollins, the biggest top-level receivers on New England's roster, made several big plays on Tuesday. Their stat lines show how involved they were: Boutte caught a team-leading five passes in team drills, followed by Brown and Hollins hauling in four receptions each.
Boutte did most of his damage against the second-string defense, and remains the factual WR4 behind Brown, Romeo Doubs and DeMario Douglas, but it is clear just how much trust both Drake Maye and Tommy DeVito have in him. He rewarded that trust with multiple downfield receptions on Tuesday — including in both QB's two-minute drill situations.
The same was true for Hollins, whose most notable play was a deep sideline shot from DeVito for what would have been a 40-plus-yard touchdown in a true game setting. Overall, the veteran has been productive the last two days and continues to be a key target in select situations.
#devito
To recap it, please visit our Patriots training camp notebook. In the meantime, here is who caught our eye during the two-hour session.
The deep passing game: Kayshon Boutte, A.J. Brown and Mack Hollins, the biggest top-level receivers on New England's roster, made several big plays on Tuesday. Their stat lines show how involved they were: Boutte caught a team-leading five passes in team drills, followed by Brown and Hollins hauling in four receptions each.
Boutte did most of his damage against the second-string defense, and remains the factual WR4 behind Brown, Romeo Doubs and DeMario Douglas, but it is clear just how much trust both Drake Maye and Tommy DeVito have in him. He rewarded that trust with multiple downfield receptions on Tuesday — including in both QB's two-minute drill situations.
The same was true for Hollins, whose most notable play was a deep sideline shot from DeVito for what would have been a 40-plus-yard touchdown in a true game setting. Overall, the veteran has been productive the last two days and continues to be a key target in select situations.
#devito
1 month ago
Lionel Hollins explains how LeBron James made Anthony Davis a better player on the Lakers originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Now that LeBron James has left the Los Angeles Lakers, it marks the end of an era for the Purple and Gold. Of course, it's not too bad for them because they have another superstar to build around with Luka Doncic. However, there was a time when they did not have that megastar.
When James signed with the Lakers in 2018, he inherited a young team. However, they made a splash when they traded for Anthony Davis, a player who was toiling away on the New Orleans Pelicans at the time. That move sealed the deal for the Lakers, giving them a superstar duo.
When he was with the Pelicans, Davis was clearly one of the league's most gifted players. He was physically imposing with his height and length, but he also paired that with unreal talent. Davis could defend at the highest possible level in basketball, but he could also serve as the go-to option on offense.
That made him enticing for almost every team in the league. However, it was the Lakers that got him in a trade that had a significant package centered on Brandon Ingram at the time. It was a worthy gamble for the Lakers because it ended up with the team winning the 2020 championship.
#team #lebron #anthony
Now that LeBron James has left the Los Angeles Lakers, it marks the end of an era for the Purple and Gold. Of course, it's not too bad for them because they have another superstar to build around with Luka Doncic. However, there was a time when they did not have that megastar.
When James signed with the Lakers in 2018, he inherited a young team. However, they made a splash when they traded for Anthony Davis, a player who was toiling away on the New Orleans Pelicans at the time. That move sealed the deal for the Lakers, giving them a superstar duo.
When he was with the Pelicans, Davis was clearly one of the league's most gifted players. He was physically imposing with his height and length, but he also paired that with unreal talent. Davis could defend at the highest possible level in basketball, but he could also serve as the go-to option on offense.
That made him enticing for almost every team in the league. However, it was the Lakers that got him in a trade that had a significant package centered on Brandon Ingram at the time. It was a worthy gamble for the Lakers because it ended up with the team winning the 2020 championship.
#team #lebron #anthony
1 month ago
For a third straight day, the New England Patriots put on their full pads on Saturday. Intensity was not as high as the last two days as several veterans were managed, but plenty of work still was done.
To recap the seventh practice of the summer, please make sure to head over to our Patriots training camp notebook. In the meantime, here is who caught our eye during the session.
WR Romeo Doubs: The $68 million man has seen a slow start to his Patriots' tenure on the practice fields. That flipped on Saturday as Doubs led all of Drake Maye's pass catchers with five targets and managed to haul in all of them during 7-on-7s and full-team work. The duo struck multiple times over the middle of the field a day after Doubs made an impressive grab in the end zone for a touchdown. Doubs' did appear to put the football on the ground at one point at the end of a play, but it was on overall positive practice for the 26-year old.
WR A.J. Brown: Doubs was not the only offseason addition to continue stacking strong days on Saturday, as A.J. Brown continued to look more in-sync with Drake Maye. Brown caught all three of his targets from Maye with his best work coming as he muscled a contested target away from Christian Gonzalez. The 29-year old receiver also added quick hitters on an out and slant before leaving practice early for what appeared to be rest related.
DBs Karon Prunty and Dell Pettus: New England's secondary got their hands on multiple footballs on Saturday, which began with safety Dell Pettus jumping in front of a pass from Drake Maye to Mack Hollins to record an interception. Shortly after, rookie cornerback Karon Prunty hauled in an interception of his own as he impressively tracked a deep ball from Tommy DeVito to Cameron Dorner.
#saturday
To recap the seventh practice of the summer, please make sure to head over to our Patriots training camp notebook. In the meantime, here is who caught our eye during the session.
WR Romeo Doubs: The $68 million man has seen a slow start to his Patriots' tenure on the practice fields. That flipped on Saturday as Doubs led all of Drake Maye's pass catchers with five targets and managed to haul in all of them during 7-on-7s and full-team work. The duo struck multiple times over the middle of the field a day after Doubs made an impressive grab in the end zone for a touchdown. Doubs' did appear to put the football on the ground at one point at the end of a play, but it was on overall positive practice for the 26-year old.
WR A.J. Brown: Doubs was not the only offseason addition to continue stacking strong days on Saturday, as A.J. Brown continued to look more in-sync with Drake Maye. Brown caught all three of his targets from Maye with his best work coming as he muscled a contested target away from Christian Gonzalez. The 29-year old receiver also added quick hitters on an out and slant before leaving practice early for what appeared to be rest related.
DBs Karon Prunty and Dell Pettus: New England's secondary got their hands on multiple footballs on Saturday, which began with safety Dell Pettus jumping in front of a pass from Drake Maye to Mack Hollins to record an interception. Shortly after, rookie cornerback Karon Prunty hauled in an interception of his own as he impressively tracked a deep ball from Tommy DeVito to Cameron Dorner.
#saturday
1 month ago
Patriots' Mack Hollins Open to New Position for 2026 NFL Season originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The idea actually makes perfect sense, even if it's a bit surprising at first.
Mack Hollins is open to playing tight end for the New England Patriots during the 2026 NFL season.
Yes, Hollins has always been a wide receiver in the NFL.
But think about it:
#preferred
The idea actually makes perfect sense, even if it's a bit surprising at first.
Mack Hollins is open to playing tight end for the New England Patriots during the 2026 NFL season.
Yes, Hollins has always been a wide receiver in the NFL.
But think about it:
#preferred
2 months ago
The New England Patriots have ended their offseason program and now break until training camp later this month. While players are out of the facility, plenty remains to break down.
So, let's get into this week's #PostPulpit Mailbag.
What offensive and defensive positional groups is going to be the most fun to watch battle it out in camp? – mathblaster97
The talent and depth at wide receiver and defensive line will make those groups exciting to watch for me. A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs building their chemistry with Drake Maye while Mack Hollins, Kyle Williams, Kayshon Boutte, DeMario Douglas, and Efton Chism III battle for their roles — as well as their potential futures in New England.
Then Milton Williams and Christian Barmore start year two together while Cory Durden, Leonard Taylor III, Joshua Farmer, Eric Gregory, Jeremiah Pharms, David Blay and Travis Shaw will be competing for depth roles.
So, let's get into this week's #PostPulpit Mailbag.
What offensive and defensive positional groups is going to be the most fun to watch battle it out in camp? – mathblaster97
The talent and depth at wide receiver and defensive line will make those groups exciting to watch for me. A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs building their chemistry with Drake Maye while Mack Hollins, Kyle Williams, Kayshon Boutte, DeMario Douglas, and Efton Chism III battle for their roles — as well as their potential futures in New England.
Then Milton Williams and Christian Barmore start year two together while Cory Durden, Leonard Taylor III, Joshua Farmer, Eric Gregory, Jeremiah Pharms, David Blay and Travis Shaw will be competing for depth roles.
2 months ago
New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye has yet to throw for 400 yards in a game in his career to date, but he will have as good a chance as he's had yet to do so in 2026.
Maye threw for 4,394 yards in 2025, but the most yards he threw for in a single game was 380 yards in Week 16 against the Baltimore Ravens. He did not record more than 294 yards in any other game of the season.
The UNC product had a season-high of 282 passing yards in 2024 as a rookie, making the 300-yard feat one that was a notable achievement for him last season. However, with A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs as his two go-to options at wide receiver for next season, the potential for him to hit that marker is strong.
Brown went for 1,000-yards receiving for the sixth time in his career in 2025 with 1,003 receiving yards, and Doubs went for 724 yards. Both are capable of stretching the field, and in the case of Brown, racking up yards after the catch. Not only that, but Hunter Henry is still in New England, as are Mack Hollins and Kayshon Boutte, giving Maye five options to spread the ball around to in the passing game next season.
If Maye can reach the mark, it's reasonable to envision the 23-year-old achieving the feat in Week 2 of next season against the Pittsburgh Steelers or in either of the Patriots' matchups against the Miami Dolphins in Week 8 or Week 18. The Steelers allowed the third-most passing yards in the NFL in 2025 with 4,437 yards, while the Dolphins allowed the highest completion rate to opposing quarterbacks at 72 percent.
Maye threw for 4,394 yards in 2025, but the most yards he threw for in a single game was 380 yards in Week 16 against the Baltimore Ravens. He did not record more than 294 yards in any other game of the season.
The UNC product had a season-high of 282 passing yards in 2024 as a rookie, making the 300-yard feat one that was a notable achievement for him last season. However, with A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs as his two go-to options at wide receiver for next season, the potential for him to hit that marker is strong.
Brown went for 1,000-yards receiving for the sixth time in his career in 2025 with 1,003 receiving yards, and Doubs went for 724 yards. Both are capable of stretching the field, and in the case of Brown, racking up yards after the catch. Not only that, but Hunter Henry is still in New England, as are Mack Hollins and Kayshon Boutte, giving Maye five options to spread the ball around to in the passing game next season.
If Maye can reach the mark, it's reasonable to envision the 23-year-old achieving the feat in Week 2 of next season against the Pittsburgh Steelers or in either of the Patriots' matchups against the Miami Dolphins in Week 8 or Week 18. The Steelers allowed the third-most passing yards in the NFL in 2025 with 4,437 yards, while the Dolphins allowed the highest completion rate to opposing quarterbacks at 72 percent.
3 months ago
Chiefs, Raiders floated as landing spots for dynamic 78-catch wide receiver originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New England Patriots fell short in the Super Bowl last season, but they have hopes of getting back and winning it in 2026.
As a result, the team has made some big changes this offseason. The wide receiver position, in particular, has seen some changes, with Romeo Doubs being added in free agency and A.J. Brown was added via trade. Kyle Williams, Mack Hollins, and DeMario Douglas are all still around as well, so the room is crowded.
This has led to Kayshon Boutte being frequently mentioned in trade rumors. Boutte was productive in 2025, and several teams could use better depth. Now, it seems like two divisional rivals could be fighting for the LSU product.
Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox recently listed the best trade candidates, and Boutte made the list. Regarding possible destinations, Knox thinks the Chiefs and Raiders both make a ton of sense.
The New England Patriots fell short in the Super Bowl last season, but they have hopes of getting back and winning it in 2026.
As a result, the team has made some big changes this offseason. The wide receiver position, in particular, has seen some changes, with Romeo Doubs being added in free agency and A.J. Brown was added via trade. Kyle Williams, Mack Hollins, and DeMario Douglas are all still around as well, so the room is crowded.
This has led to Kayshon Boutte being frequently mentioned in trade rumors. Boutte was productive in 2025, and several teams could use better depth. Now, it seems like two divisional rivals could be fighting for the LSU product.
Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox recently listed the best trade candidates, and Boutte made the list. Regarding possible destinations, Knox thinks the Chiefs and Raiders both make a ton of sense.
3 months ago
Patriots HOF WR Gushes About Difficulty Of A.J. Brown, Mack Hollins Sharing Field originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New England Patriots wide receiving room quickly became one of the best in the NFL this offseason with the addition of A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs. But forgotten in all the ***** er of the two newest pieces is 32-year-old receiver Mack Hollins returning for year two in New England after the second-best season of his career.
Hollins surpassed 500 yards last season for only the second time in his career. The receiver, who has been in the league since 2017, looked reborn in Foxboro.
At the time of his signing, Hollins was expected to be a fringe piece of Josh McDaniels' offense. The veteran soon became one of quarterback Drake Maye's trustiest options on third down, and was instrumental in the success of the Patriots' running game.
He is once again returning to bring the grit to New England's pass game, and Patriots Hall of Famer Troy Brown thinks pairing him up with A.J. Brown will cause a whole bunch of problems for opposing defenses.
The New England Patriots wide receiving room quickly became one of the best in the NFL this offseason with the addition of A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs. But forgotten in all the ***** er of the two newest pieces is 32-year-old receiver Mack Hollins returning for year two in New England after the second-best season of his career.
Hollins surpassed 500 yards last season for only the second time in his career. The receiver, who has been in the league since 2017, looked reborn in Foxboro.
At the time of his signing, Hollins was expected to be a fringe piece of Josh McDaniels' offense. The veteran soon became one of quarterback Drake Maye's trustiest options on third down, and was instrumental in the success of the Patriots' running game.
He is once again returning to bring the grit to New England's pass game, and Patriots Hall of Famer Troy Brown thinks pairing him up with A.J. Brown will cause a whole bunch of problems for opposing defenses.
3 months ago
Should Patroits Sign Stefon Diggs, Go All-In On Next Season? originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New England Patriots made a major move to acquire A.J. Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday.
The Patriots gave up a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick. It is a major investment in a position they already invested in during free agency. The Patriots signed Romeo Doubs to a four-year, $68 million deal, worth up to $80 million, in free agency. Last season, the receiving corps did not have much going on behind Stefon Diggs.
Kayshon Boutte and Mack Hollins were solid players, but Brown and Doubs look to be an upgrade over what the Patriots had last season. Diggs was a 1,000-yard receiver last year, and he remains unsigned. Acquiring Brown is an all-in move, so should the Patriots also bring back Diggs to create an elite trio of wide receivers?
Well, the answer is more complicated than a simple yes or no. Right now, the Patriots' number three wide receiver is likely going to be Kayshon Boutte. However, there are rumors that he could be traded. He is in the final year of his deal and may want to play in an offense where he has a bigger role. He has been working out away from the team this offseason.
The New England Patriots made a major move to acquire A.J. Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday.
The Patriots gave up a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick. It is a major investment in a position they already invested in during free agency. The Patriots signed Romeo Doubs to a four-year, $68 million deal, worth up to $80 million, in free agency. Last season, the receiving corps did not have much going on behind Stefon Diggs.
Kayshon Boutte and Mack Hollins were solid players, but Brown and Doubs look to be an upgrade over what the Patriots had last season. Diggs was a 1,000-yard receiver last year, and he remains unsigned. Acquiring Brown is an all-in move, so should the Patriots also bring back Diggs to create an elite trio of wide receivers?
Well, the answer is more complicated than a simple yes or no. Right now, the Patriots' number three wide receiver is likely going to be Kayshon Boutte. However, there are rumors that he could be traded. He is in the final year of his deal and may want to play in an offense where he has a bigger role. He has been working out away from the team this offseason.
