Graham Mertz’s Texans preseason showing in Week 2 was brief and quiet: two completions for one yard across three series, sandwiched by a punt and a kneel-down. Houston’s QB pecking order remains Stroud, Mills and Slovis, leaving the former Badger with a clear roster battle entering the Aug. 23 finale against Detroit. The Texans won 20-3, but Mertz’s three drives did little to alter the path of a six-round pick fighting for a 53-man spot. Fantasy takeaways: don’t count on Mertz contributing in 2025 unless injuries create a late-season opening; his best path remains as a practice-squad developmental option if he clears waivers.

For dynasty managers, the narrative centers on depth-chart leverage more than immediate upside. Stroud’s early hold on the starter’s role, Mills’ veteran presence, and Slovis’s developing upside keep Mertz on the outside looking in, though any dramatic shift in roster-building or in-game opportunity could change his odds quickly.