Mack Hollins, a wide receiver for the New England Patriots, has become known for a rather unconventional habit, walking around barefoot. This isn’t about improved athletic performance or strategy. It’s about his unapologetic barefoot lifestyle.
Hollins, now in his second year with the Patriots, reports that dining establishments in the area have grown accustomed to his habit. He notes that restaurants now welcome him, allowing him to dine without shoes.
MACK HOLLINS ENTERS STADIUM WITH NO SHOES OR SHIRT
During an October 26, 2025, game at Gillette Stadium, Hollins demonstrated his athletic abilities against the Cleveland Browns. Despite his unconventional approach off the field, he made significant contributions on it.
“I love it,” Hollins shared at a Patriots training camp interview, conducted barefoot. “There’s acceptance for being barefoot in restaurants because they know me.” He humorously remarked how initially he was mistaken for a homeless person, but now he’s like a familiar face.
For those uneasy about exposed bare feet, Hollins may not be the ideal personality. Yet, Patriots fans recall his crucial performances last season. Hollins started 13 regular-season games and appeared in two postseason games. He scored the team’s sole touchdown on a 35-yard reception in Super Bowl LX, fostering acceptance of his quirks.
Hollins stands out in various ways. He prefers using his hands to eat, claiming it helps gauge food temperature for his palate. This has earned him affection and acceptance in local New England restaurants.
“Every team I’ve been on, if you ask who’s the weirdest guy, they’ll say Mack,” Hollins admitted. His idiosyncrasies are known among teammates.
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Despite previous perceptions, Hollins’s peculiar tendencies are seen more as endearing than disruptive. He has shown up shirtless to games, even in Buffalo’s harsh winter, and wore an Animal Muppet mask to the AFC Championship game in 2025.
Shoeless Mack Hollins embraces his unique lifestyle, backed by his reasoning that shoes are merely tools, not integral to one’s body. He likens wearing shoes to carrying a hammer unnecessarily.
Hollins’s expression of individuality might be odd to some, yet it inspires intrigue and acceptance among his fans and teammates alike.
Armando Salguero is OutKick’s Senior NFL Writer. Follow him on X: @ARMANDOSALGUERO.