The New England Patriots have made several roster changes ahead of their Week 17 game against the New York Jets. The team placed wide receiver Mack Hollins on injured reserve due to an abdomen injury and signed defensive tackle Jeremiah Pharms Jr. from the practice squad to the active roster. Defensive lineman Leonard Taylor III and defensive back Kobee Minor were also elevated from the practice squad for Sunday’s matchup.
Hollins has been a key part of the Patriots’ offense this season, leading all receivers in snaps and ranking third in both receptions and receiving yards. Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels described Hollins as a “chess piece” who contributes not only as a receiver but also as a blocker because of his size and versatility. The loss of Hollins will be felt for at least four games, including potential playoff appearances, with his earliest possible return set for the AFC Championship Game if New England advances that far.
Despite being without two receivers—Hollins and Kayshon Boutte—and listing DeMario Douglas as questionable, the Patriots did not elevate another wide receiver from the practice squad. This decision suggests Douglas may be available to play alongside Stefon Diggs, Kyle Williams, and Efton Chism III, leaving New England with four healthy wideouts for Sunday’s game.
Looking ahead to potential playoff scenarios, Boutte is expected to return soon, which would give the team a receiving corps consisting of Diggs, Boutte, Douglas, Williams, and Chism. In light of recent injuries at wide receiver, tight ends Hunter Henry and Austin Hooper may see increased roles in offensive schemes typically involving three receivers.
On Friday, head coach Mike Vrabel commented on defensive tackle Milton Williams’ status: “Just trying to get back into it. I think he’s working hard. I would say that it’d be tough to see a lot just from the way that the practices were structured, but he’s working hard to get back, and again, it’s good to see him out there with the team. That’s just the first step of it,” Vrabel said.
Pharms Jr. and Taylor III were promoted due to injuries along New England’s defensive line; nose tackle Khyiris Tonga (foot) and standout DT Milton Williams (ankle) are both unavailable this week. With these moves, Pharms Jr., Taylor III join Christian Barmore, Cory Durden, and Eric Gregory among available defensive tackles for Sunday’s contest.
Rookie cornerback Kobee Minor was elevated for his third regular-season appearance; he is primarily expected to contribute on special teams.
The Patriots face significant injury challenges heading into their game against the Jets but anticipate reinforcements could return during their playoff run—including Milton Williams, linebacker Robert Spillane (ankle), starting left tackle Will Campbell (knee), among others.
Kickoff between New England and New York is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.
