Mike Vrabel provides injury updates on key Patriots players ahead of AFC Championship Game
New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel addressed the media on Wednesday, offering insights into the team's injury situation ahead of their AFC Championship Game against the Denver Broncos. The focus was on two starters: cornerback Carlton Davis and wide receiver Mack Hollins.
According to Vrabel, only one of these players will be available for the first practice of the week.
Carlton Davis' Injury Update
Carlton Davis, a starting cornerback, suffered a head injury in the divisional round game against the Houston Texans. He left the game in the fourth quarter after catching two interceptions in the first half. Initially deemed questionable to return, he was eventually ruled out before the two-minute warning. Vrabel confirmed that Davis is now in the NFL's concussion protocol but expects him to participate in practice on Wednesday, albeit in a limited capacity.
Mack Hollins' Absence
Mack Hollins, a starting wide receiver, missed the last game due to an abdomen injury. He was placed on injured reserve on December 27, just before the Patriots' Week 17 match against the New York Jets. Despite being eligible to return to practice this week, Hollins is not yet cleared to rejoin the team. Vrabel confirmed that Hollins won't be available for practice on Wednesday.
The absence of Hollins has created opportunities for rookie receivers Kyle Williams and Efton Chism. They finished last week's game against the Texans with the third and fourth most snaps among their position group, but neither managed to catch a pass. Hollins will have the chance to return to practice on Thursday and Friday, with the team traveling to Denver on Saturday. A decision on his return to the 53-man roster will need to be made soon.
