Texans fear torn ACL for backup QB Graham Mertz

Field Level Media|published: Fri 14th August, 10:57 2026

Sep 21, 2025; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Graham Mertz (18) before the game at the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images

Texans second-year quarterback Graham Mertz likely tore his ACL during Thursday's preseason opener, ESPN reported.

A sixth-round draft pick in 2025, Mertz sustained a knee injury during a scramble late in the second quarter. Before leaving, he completed 4 of 7 passes for 23 yards in the 27-7 loss to the visiting Los Angeles Chargers.

Mertz, 25, is No. 3 on the depth chart behind starter C.J. Stroud and veteran backup Davis Mills. He is expected to undergo additional testing Friday to confirm the ACL tear, which would be a season-ending injury.

Mertz spent most of his rookie season on the injured list. He dealt with a leg injury during his senior season at Florida.

Mertz, who played at Wisconsin (2019-22) and Florida (2023-24), did not appear in a regular season game in 2025.

--Field Level Media

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