The 5-3 New England Patriots could be getting one of their star wide receivers back from injury in the coming weeks, potentially even for this weekend against the Green Bay Packers. Receiver Mack Hollins is set to return to practice on Wednesday, ESPN's Ian Rapoport reported. Hollins has been on the injured reserve list with a calf injury since after Week 4's win over the Buffalo Bills.
He missed four games, which is the least amount required when a player lands on the IR. A return this weekend would be ideal for the Patriots as Hollins would miss just the expected four games and nothing more. Hollins must return within 21 days as his practice window has now opened.
So, if he doesn't play this weekend, then he'll have to be activated for next weekend's matchup versus the Detroit Lions before New England's Week 11 bye. The veteran receiver is in his second year with the Patriots, his sixth team during his NFL career thus far. He was on a good pace to start the season through four games as Hollins recorded 15 catches for 209 yards.
Hollins's return comes at a good time as fellow receiver A.J. Brown's return timeline remains a mystery. Brown missed last weekend's contest versus the Miami Dolphins because of a knee issue, although he'd miss previous games because of a high ankle sprain.
Coach Mike Vrabel hasn't announced Brown's status for this weekend as practice this week will determine his availability. Receiver Romeo Doubs is also on the IR after suffering a shoulder injury on Oct. 18. He's expected to return after the Week 11 bye, but Hollins's return to the field can bridge some gaps for the Patriots offense in the meantime.
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