The New England Patriots got a new pass-catching option for Drake Maye as the first day of the NFL’s legal tampering neared its end Monday.

According to NFL Media’s Mike Garafolo, the Patriots agreed to a two-year deal worth $8.4 million with veteran wide receiver Mack Hollins. Garafolo noted Hollins’ contract can max out at $10.4 million.

The Patriots are plenty familiar with Hollins. He played last season with the Buffalo Bills, where he wasn’t the top option for star quarterback Josh Allen, but a trusted one. Hollins recorded 31 receptions for 378 yards with a career-high five touchdowns. The 31-year-old also came through a couple of key catches during Buffalo’s playoff run to the AFC Championship Game.

Hollins also has a connection with Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. Hollins’ best season in the NFL came in 2022 with the Raiders when McDaniels was at the helm. Hollins produced by far a career-best 57 receptions for 690 yards and four touchdowns.

Hollins brings a different element to the Patriots receivers room that they don’t currently have. He is a big-bodied receiver standing at 6-foot-4 and 221 pounds, making him a reliable downfield threat and red-zone target.

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Hollins will compete with Kendrick Bourne, Kayshon Boutte, DeMario Douglas, Ja’Lynn Polk and Javon Baker for playing time next season.

Adding Hollins, who was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fourth round of the 2017 draft, provides another solid receiver for the Patriots, but they are still in need of a game-changing threat at that position.

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