Who is Mack Hollins? Mack Hollins is not your average NFL wide receiver. Born on September 16, 1993, in Rockville, Maryland, he has carved out a unique niche in the football world. From his early days at Thomas S. Wootton High School to his standout college career at the University of North Carolina, Hollins has always been a hard worker. Drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2017, he played a key role in their Super Bowl LII victory. Known for his barefoot lifestyle and aversion to house cats, Hollins is as intriguing off the field as he is on it.
Key Takeaways:
- Mack Hollins' journey from walk-on to NFL standout showcases the power of hard work and determination, inspiring others to pursue their dreams against all odds.
- Known for his unique personality and dedication, Mack Hollins has made a significant impact on and off the field, earning respect and admiration from fans and teammates alike.
Early Life and Education
Mack Hollins' journey to the NFL is a testament to hard work and determination. Let's dive into his early years and educational background.
- Mack Hollins was born on September 16, 1993, in Rockville, Maryland.
- He attended Robert Frost Middle School and later Thomas S. Wootton High School.
- Despite not receiving any scholarship offers out of high school, Hollins attended Fork Union Military Academy in Virginia.
- At Fork Union, he played alongside Cardale Jones, who later led the Ohio State Buckeyes to the College Football Playoff National Championship.
College Football Career
Hollins' college career at the University of North Carolina (UNC) was marked by significant achievements and milestones.
- Hollins joined the UNC football team as a walk-on in 2012.
- He quickly made a name for himself, earning the position of special teams captain as a freshman in 2013.
- During his sophomore year in 2014, Hollins earned honorable mention All-Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) accolades.
- He finished the 2014 season with 35 catches for a team-high 613 yards and eight receiving touchdowns.
- As a junior in 2015, Hollins led all NCAA major college players with an average of 24.8 yards per reception.
- He caught at least one pass in all 13 games and found the end zone in seven different contests.
- Hollins became the first Tar Heel to catch three touchdown passes since 2011 when he tallied three scores against Wake Forest.
NFL Draft and Philadelphia Eagles
Hollins' transition to the NFL began with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he made an immediate impact.
- Hollins was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fourth round (118th overall) of the 2017 NFL draft.
- In Week 2 of the 2017 season, Hollins had his first three career receptions against the Kansas City Chiefs.
- His first touchdown reception came in Week 7 against the Washington Redskins, a 64-yard catch from quarterback Carson Wentz.
- Hollins played a significant role in the Eagles' Super Bowl LII victory over the New England Patriots in 2018.
- On September 6, 2018, Hollins was placed on injured reserve with a groin injury.
- During the 2019 offseason, he gave his jersey number, No. 10, to veteran DeSean Jackson and changed to No. 16.
Miami Dolphins and Las Vegas Raiders
Hollins continued to showcase his skills with the Miami Dolphins and later the Las Vegas Raiders.
- Hollins played for the Miami Dolphins from 2020 to 2022.
- During his time with the Dolphins, he was named a team captain.
- In 2022, Hollins joined the Las Vegas Raiders.
- He had a standout season with the Raiders, earning recognition for his special teams contributions and his role as a receiver.
- His career-high season in 2022 was marked by 56 receptions for 690 yards and four touchdowns.
Atlanta Falcons and Buffalo Bills
Hollins' journey took him to the Atlanta Falcons and eventually the Buffalo Bills.
- On March 21, 2023, Hollins signed a one-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons.
- He played in 13 games with three starts, recording 18 catches for 251 yards and no touchdowns.
- On March 14, 2024, Hollins signed a one-year contract with the Buffalo Bills.
- This move brought him back to the East Coast and reunited him with quarterback Josh Allen.
Career Statistics and Special Teams
Hollins' career statistics and special teams contributions highlight his versatility and dedication.
- Hollins has appeared in 95 career games (27 starts) and has recorded 131 catches for 1,691 yards and 10 touchdowns.
- His career against the Buffalo Bills includes one catch for three yards in five games.
- Hollins has carved out a role as a special teams standout throughout his career.
- He has been graded as one of the top blockers among wide receivers by Pro Football Focus.
Community Involvement and Social Media Presence
Hollins is not just a football player; he is also deeply involved in community initiatives and has a strong social media presence.
- Hollins is heavily involved in community and charity initiatives.
- He serves as a global ambassador for the Special Olympics, advocating for inclusion and accessibility in sports.
- His passion for education and literacy is evident through his initiatives like "Mack Book Mondays" and "Fast Fact Fridays."
- Hollins has an active TikTok account where he focuses on "life hacks" and home improvement ideas.
- He uses social media to offer monthly challenges and daily positive affirmations.
Unique Personality and Habits
Hollins is known for his unique personality and unconventional habits, which have earned him a special place in the hearts of fans and teammates.
- Hollins rarely wears shoes, preferring to go barefoot as much as possible.
- This practice has earned him the nickname "Tarzan" among teammates and fans.
- While Hollins does wear cleats for football games due to NFL regulations, he refers to them as "foot prisons."
- Hollins eats without utensils, a practice he believes helps him digest food better.
- He has a strong dislike for house cats, believing they will steal one's soul.
- Hollins has a fascination with exotic animals and has collected several snakes.
- His dream job is to open a world-renowned aquarium.
Leadership and Determination
Hollins' leadership and determination have been key factors in his success on and off the field.
- Hollins has been a leader throughout his career, from being a special teams captain at North Carolina to serving as a team captain in the NFL.
- He believes that hard work and determination are key to success, both on and off the field.
- Hollins has played a significant role in community hours for every team he has played for.
- He started "Mack Book Mondays" and "Fast Fact Fridays" to drive accessibility to education, especially in underserved populations.
- Hollins offers monthly challenges on social media for others to join him in promoting positivity and self-improvement.
Career Highlights and Fan Reception
Hollins' career has seen several highlights, and he is generally well-received wherever he goes.
- Hollins' best season was in 2022 with the Las Vegas Raiders, where he recorded 56 receptions for 690 yards and four touchdowns.
- His worst season was in 2023 with the Atlanta Falcons, where he had 18 catches for 251 yards and no touchdowns.
- His teammates have dubbed his post-practice run as the "Mack Mile," reflecting his dedication to fitness and hard work.
Mack Hollins: A Unique NFL Star
Mack Hollins isn't just another NFL wide receiver. His journey from a walk-on at UNC to a Super Bowl champion with the Eagles shows his grit and determination. Known for his quirky habits like going barefoot and eating without utensils, Hollins stands out both on and off the field. His leadership shines through his roles as a team captain and his community involvement, especially with the Special Olympics. Hollins' career stats, including his standout season with the Raiders, highlight his skills and versatility. Now with the Buffalo Bills, he's excited to work with Josh Allen and continue making an impact. Hollins' story is a testament to hard work, individuality, and giving back. Whether it's his unique lifestyle or his dedication to football, Mack Hollins is truly one of a kind.
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