Hollins and Mapu Activated for AFC Championship Against Broncos
In a pivotal matchup for the AFC Championship, the New England Patriots have made significant roster adjustments. Wide Receiver Mack Hollins and Linebacker Marte Mapu have been activated for the crucial game against the Denver Broncos.
Mack Hollins and Marte Mapu Activated
Both players were officially activated after being on the injury report. Hollins returns following a four-game stretch on injured reserve due to an abdominal injury. His last active appearance was in Week 16 against the Baltimore Ravens.
Hollins proved to be an essential asset to the Patriots’ offense earlier in the season. He led the team in regular-season snaps, recording 657, and ranked third in receptions with 46 and fourth in receiving yards at 550. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 221 pounds, Hollins brings the size and agility necessary to contribute both in blocking schemes and as a receiving target.
Patriots Inactive Players
- OLB Harold Landry III (knee)
- WR Efton Chism III
- G Caedan Wallace
- TE C.J. Dippre
- OT Marcus Bryant
- DB Kobee Minor
- QB Tommy DeVito (emergency third quarterback)
With Hollins active, rookie Efton Chism III will not play, leaving the Patriots with five capable wide receivers. This roster move is likely to enhance quarterback Drake Maye’s passing options.
Performance Expectations Against the Broncos
The Patriots offensive line remains unchanged, with a starting lineup that has proven effective in the playoffs. Key matchups on the left side include rookie LT Will Campbell facing Broncos’ top pass-rusher Nik Bonitto, who has recorded 14 sacks this season.
Supporting Cast for QB Drake Maye
- LT: Campbell
- LG: Wilson
- C: Bradbury
- RG: Onwenu
- RT: Moses
- WR: Diggs, Boutte, Hollins, Douglas, Williams
- TE: Henry, Hooper, Westover (FB), Tonga (short-yardage FB)
- RB: Stevenson, Henderson, Johnson
Defensive Adjustments
On the defensive side, the absence of Landry is significant. He struggled with a knee injury and only participated minimally in the playoffs. The Patriots will rely on game-captains Anfernee Jennings and rookie Elijah Ponder to pick up the slack.
They will rotate with hybrid linebacker Jahlani Tavai. This group aims to improve upon their playoff performance, which has included effective pressure from defensive tackles like Christian Barmore and Milton Williams.
Special Teams Impact
Marte Mapu’s inclusion is crucial for the special teams unit. Recognized for his communication skills, he serves as the personal protector for the punt coverage team. The Patriots aim to maintain their robust special teams performance, as they have not allowed any punt blocks this season.
Game Day Overview
The AFC Championship Game kicks off at 3 p.m. ET at Empower Field at Mile High. The Patriots are looking to make history as the first team to reach the Super Bowl after finishing the previous season with 13 or more losses.
As they head into this crucial matchup against the Broncos, the Patriots hope to leverage their recent playoff successes and the return of key players to secure their place in Super Bowl LX.
