The New England Patriots have decided to grant wide receiver Mack Hollins a $400,000 incentive bonus even though he did not achieve the required 50 receptions. Hollins completed the season with 46 catches but was sidelined for the last two regular-season games due to a lacerated spleen. This gesture rewards his contributions and leadership throughout the year.
Hollins’ Career and Contract Journey
Mack Hollins, 32, was originally selected in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles after playing college football at North Carolina. His career has seen several moves, including stints with the Miami Dolphins, Las Vegas Raiders, Atlanta Falcons, and Buffalo Bills on one-year contracts. Before joining the Patriots, he was an unrestricted free agent for the first time.
Last offseason, Hollins signed a two-year deal with the Patriots valued at $8.4 million. In the 2025 season, he appeared in 15 games, accumulating 550 receiving yards, two touchdowns, and 46 receptions.
Season Performance and Team Recognition
Although Hollins did not meet the exact incentive target of 50 receptions, the Patriots acknowledged his efforts and rewarded him accordingly. The injury that caused him to miss the final games factored into their decision to honor his contract bonus. Hollins remains an important part of the Patriots’ receiving unit and leadership group.
Impact of the Bonus Decision on Future Contracts
This choice to pay Mack Hollins despite missing the incentive threshold demonstrates the Patriots’ appreciation for his role on the team. It may influence how performance-related bonuses are handled going forward, especially when injuries impact a player’s ability to meet targets. The team’s recognition of Hollins speaks to his value beyond just statistical achievements.
Patriots WR Mack Hollins came up four catches short of a $400,000 incentive this past season, when a lacerated spleen cost him the last two regular-season games.
A cool gesture: The Patriots honored the incentive anyway, adding a $400,000 signing bonus to Hollins’ contract. pic.twitter.com/4GbbuFqhcq
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) February 20, 2026
