New England Patriots wide receiver Mack Hollins and offensive lineman Greg Van Roten returned to practice on Thursday, providing a boost to the team's depth ahead of their upcoming matchup.
Both players had been sidelined recently, with Hollins dealing with a shoulder issue and Van Roten managing a knee concern. Their participation in Thursday's session suggests they are trending toward availability for Sunday's game.
Hollins, a veteran receiver known for his blocking ability and special teams contributions, adds experience to a receiving corps that has dealt with inconsistency this season. Van Roten, who has started at both guard positions, offers valuable versatility along the offensive line.
The Patriots' offense has struggled with continuity due to injuries across multiple position groups. Getting two veteran contributors back on the field, even in a limited capacity, gives the coaching staff more options for game planning and rotation management.
Head coach Jerod Mayo indicated earlier in the week that both players were progressing well in their recovery programs. Their return to practice represents the next step in that process, though their official game status will likely not be determined until Friday's injury report.
