Who Should I Start? Mack Hollins or Kevin Austin Jr.

Friday, August 1, 4:28 PM

The New England Patriots have "significant plans" for veteran wide receiver Mack Hollins, according to ESPN's Mike Reiss. Hollins signed a two-year contract with New England in free agency after spending the 2024 season with the Buffalo Bills. Entering his age-32 season in 2025, Hollins has mostly played a supporting role as a run blocker and core special-teams player throughout his seven-year NFL career. However, he had his most productive year as a receiver in 2022 while playing under current Patriots' offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels when McDaniels was the head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. That season, Hollins played 17 games (16 starts) and caught 57 passes for 690 yards and four touchdowns. He appears to be the favorite to start on the outside in New England alongside Stefon Diggs and slot receiver DeMario Douglas. The buzz around Hollins should cool fantasy enthusiasm for Patriots rookie receiver Kyle Williams, who looks to be blocked off from regular playing time.

Sunday, January 5, 9:52 AM

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Kevin Austin Jr. has seen increased playing time over the last few weeks. Austin has seen 70 percent of the offensive snaps or more during each of the last three games. Sadly, Austin hasn't been able to do much with the extra snaps. The 24-year-old has three receptions for 48 yards over the span. The expectation is Austin will continue seeing plenty of the field during Sunday's regular season finale against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, Austin hasn't done enough on the field lately to be considered a viable fantasy option.