Mike Vrabel Provides Injury Updates on Key Patriots Starters

New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel recently addressed the media, revealing important injury updates on key team starters. As the team prepares for their upcoming game against the Denver Broncos, the health of cornerback Carlton Davis and wide receiver Mack Hollins is a primary concern.

Injury Updates on Key Patriots Players

Carlton Davis Injury Update

• Injury Details: Carlton Davis suffered a head injury during the Patriots’ divisional round game against the Houston Texans.
• Game Impact: He had made two interceptions before being ruled out in the fourth quarter.
• Current Status: Davis has been placed in the NFL’s concussion protocol but is expected to participate in practice.
• Expected Participation: Mike Vrabel anticipates him practicing in a limited capacity.
• Team Role: Davis is a starting cornerback, typically playing opposite Pro Bowler Christian Gonzalez.

Mack Hollins Injury Update

• Injury Details: Mack Hollins sustained an abdomen injury, leading to his placement on injured reserve on December 27.
• Season Performance: He recorded 46 receptions for 550 yards and two touchdowns before his injury.
• Return Eligibility: Although eligible to practice again this week, Hollins has not been cleared for action yet.
• Coach’s Comments: Coach Vrabel confirmed that Hollins will not return to practice today.

In Hollins’ absence, the Patriots have provided opportunities for rookie receivers Kyle Williams and Efton Chism. Both players had increased playing time in the recent game against the Texans, although neither managed to catch a pass.

Upcoming Practice Schedule

The Patriots will have further chances to evaluate Hollins’ fitness during practice sessions on Thursday and Friday. The team’s travel to Denver is scheduled for Saturday, at which point they must make a decision regarding Hollins’ return to the 53-man roster.

As the Patriots navigate these injury concerns, the coaching staff remains optimistic about their key players’ recovery and contributions to the team’s playoff aspirations.