Patriots Place Mack Hollins on IR Before Raiders Matchup

The New England Patriots placed wide receiver Mack Hollins and fullback Reggie Gilliam on injured reserve Saturday before their home game against the Las Vegas Raiders. The moves came as the team adjusted its roster after multiple injuries affected its offense and defense.

According to Boston.com, Hollins will miss at least four games after suffering a calf injury against the Buffalo Bills in Week 4. The 33-year-old receiver recorded 15 receptions for 209 yards through four games this season.

Gilliam, 29, also moved to injured reserve after dealing with ankle and knee issues. According to Boston.com, the Patriots used him mainly as a backfield blocker during the opening weeks and may rely more on tight ends Tanner Arkin and Cameron Latu.

The loss of Hollins leaves quarterback Drake Maye with four available wide receivers: Efton Chism, Romeo Doubs, DeMario Douglas, and Kyle Williams. Chism stepped up after Hollins exited against Buffalo, making two catches for 42 yards and scoring the game-winning touchdown.

New England also activated safety Brenden Schooler from the non-football injury list and elevated safety Elliott Davison and linebacker K.J. Britt from the practice squad. Cornerback Christian Gonzalez, Channing Canada, Carlton Davis, and Karon Prunty were ruled out, leaving Marcus Jones as the only cornerback without an injury designation entering the weekend.

Defensive coordinator Zak Kuhr addressed the team's defensive adjustments after the injury issues affected the secondary and other positions.

"I wouldn’t say it’s been challenging, I’d say the guys are excited about the anticipation and how we get creative with some things," said Zak Kuhr, defensive coordinator.

Kuhr said the team was focused on finding solutions while preparing for the Raiders. The Patriots also elevated players to provide additional depth for the matchup.

"It’s not only practicing for us, it’s also about getting good looks for the offense as well. I think they’ve been excited to solve the problem of the week," said Zak Kuhr, defensive coordinator.

According to Boston.com, Las Vegas also elevated running back Roman Hemby after Ashton Jeanty became questionable because of a foot and ankle injury. Jeanty was limited in Thursday's practice and missed Friday's session before the matchup.