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Alexander Hollins is not a familiar name for most NFL fans, but the newest Cleveland Browns wide receiver is ready to make a bigger impression. The Browns added Hollins this week, and the second-year wideout will join the active roster once he clears COVID-19 protocols.
What are the Browns getting in Hollins?
Now in his second season out of Eastern Illinois, Hollins spent his rookie campaign with the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent. Most of the 2019 season was on the Vikings’ practice squad, but he did see action in five games down the stretch, playing under offensive coordinator (and now Browns head coach) Kevin Stefanski.
Hollins caught two passes on four targets for 46 yards in 71 total offensive snaps. He also had limited special teams duty.
He’s an impressive, albeit slightly-built athlete. At 6-0 and a listed 166 pounds that appears generous, Hollins is both quick and fast. He clocked a 4.48 40-yard dash at his pro day in 2019 and also posted a 6.89 3-cone drill. That’s an impressive combo that helped him dominate the FCS level with the Panthers.
In college, he was a big-play wideout with a knack for making tough catches in the end zone. He extends well to present a big catch radius, and Hollins has strong hands. Despite being skinny and with small hands, Hollins reliably caught the ball and held on through contact well.
The lack of bulk showed more in blocking and in working the middle of the field. He’s not scared, but he’s also not scaring anyone. It was difficult to see how his impressive agility metrics translated to route-running, too. He only showed one gear on deeper routes.
He’s a nice pickup for the Browns this late in the season for his familiarity with Stefanski’s offense and his reliable hands. In all likelihood, Hollins is auditioning for a shot at making the team in 2021.