Houston, Texas — The Houston Texans are approaching one of their most intriguing roster decisions of the 2026 season.
While C.J. Stroud’s position as the franchise quarterback remains secure, questions continue to grow about the depth chart behind him.
The Texans currently have three quarterbacks under contract, creating an interesting situation within the organization.
Stroud remains the centerpiece of Houston’s long term plans after the team exercised his fifth year option.
That decision has shifted attention toward the other two quarterbacks on the roster, Davis Mills and Graham Mertz.
According to several league evaluations, Mills has emerged as the player most likely to become a trade candidate.
The reason is not declining performance but rather the fact that his value appears to be rising.
Last season, Mills was called upon to replace Stroud during a critical stretch of the schedule.
In three starts, Mills threw five touchdown passes and just one interception.
More importantly, Houston won all three games that he started during that stretch.
Those performances have reportedly increased interest in Mills from around the league.
Analysts believe his starting experience and reliability make him an attractive option for quarterback needy teams.
Some evaluations even suggest the Texans could receive valuable draft compensation if they choose to move him.
However, Houston’s decision will not revolve solely around Davis Mills.
The development of second year quarterback Graham Mertz could prove equally important in the process.
Selected in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Mertz remains a long term developmental prospect.
Although he has yet to appear in a regular season game, he has continued gaining valuable experience.
The coaching staff is reportedly eager to evaluate his progress throughout offseason activities and training camp.
If Mertz proves capable of handling the primary backup role behind Stroud, the equation could change significantly.
For now, the Texans have not made a final decision, but the futures of Davis Mills and Graham Mertz remain among the most closely watched storylines in Houston heading into the 2026 season.
