Championship Showdown: Key Returns and Crucial Absences Set the Stage
The Return of a Crucial Offensive Weapon: Mack Hollins Rejoins the Patriots' Ranks
New England's wide receiver, Mack Hollins, has been officially cleared to play in Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the Denver Broncos. This marks a significant return for the Patriots, as Hollins had been sidelined due to an abdomen injury, missing several critical games leading up to this championship encounter.
Hollins' Road to Recovery: A Timeline of Absence and Anticipated Impact
Hollins' last appearance on the field was on December 21st, when he sustained his injury during a game against the Baltimore Ravens. His recovery period saw him miss the final two regular-season games and both of the Patriots' initial playoff matchups. His activation from injured reserve on Saturday brings a much-needed boost to the team's offensive capabilities, given his previous season statistics of 46 receptions for 550 yards and two touchdowns.
Patriots' Full Roster: Additional Player Updates and Inactive Roster Decisions
Beyond Hollins, linebacker Marte Mapu, who had been listed as questionable with a hip issue, is also active for the Patriots. However, the team will be without outside linebacker Harold Landry (knee), cornerback Kobee Minor, receiver Efton Chism, tight end C.J. Dippre, guard Caedan Wallace, and tackle Marcus Bryant, all of whom are listed as inactive for the game.
Broncos' Lineup Changes: Wattenberg's Return and Nix's Significant Absence
On the Denver side, center Luke Wattenberg is cleared to play after missing the last three games (two regular season, one postseason) due to a shoulder injury. Wattenberg, who had been a consistent presence on the offensive line, was activated from injured reserve on Saturday. Critically, the Broncos will face the Patriots without their starting quarterback, Bo Nix, who suffered an ankle fracture in the previous divisional-round overtime victory against the Buffalo Bills. Jarrett Stidham is slated to start in his place.
Denver's Inactive List: Key Players Sidelined for the Championship Match
The Denver Broncos' inactive players for the AFC Championship include receivers Troy Franklin (hamstring) and Michael Bandy, center Alex Forsyth (ankle), defensive end Sai'Vion Jones, defensive lineman Jordan Jackson, inside linebacker Karene Reid, and safety JL Skinner (quadriceps). These absences will undoubtedly test the depth of the Broncos' roster in this high-stakes game.