Mack Hollins and Greg Van Roten returned to practice Wednesday as New England opened Week 9 preparations. Both had been out, with Hollins working his way back at receiver and Van Roten on the interior line, and their presence gives the Patriots added depth and experience as starter-level contributors heading into the game.
Hunter Henry missed practice to start Week 9 prep but returned Friday and is listed as questionable ahead of New England's matchup with Green Bay. Mack Hollins and Greg Van Roten both opened their 21-day return windows this week, giving the Patriots potential roster boosts as they approach the Packers game.
The Patriots enter Thursday Night Football against the Bears with their offensive line banged up. Right guard Mike Onwenu is out with an ankle injury, and his replacement, Greg Van Roten, is also sidelined with a thigh issue, forcing New England to shuffle its line again.
Patriots wide receiver Mack Hollins and interior lineman Greg Van Roten both practiced for the first time in Week 9, marking their return after missing time as starter-level contributors.
The Patriots practiced without offensive captain Hunter Henry on Wednesday, one of four players sidelined, while Mack Hollins and Greg Van Roten opened 21-day return windows ahead of facing Green Bay.
The Patriots' offensive line continues to be hit by injuries ahead of Thursday Night Football against the Bears, having already lost right guard Mike Onwenu and his replacement Greg Van Roten to ankle and thigh injuries.
Patriots coach Mike Vrabel identified Greg Van Roten, Walter Rouse and Ben Brown as candidates to fill the right guard spot left open by Mike Onwenu's absence.