Could a backup quarterback, a proven winner with a strong arm, fetch the Texans valuable draft picks and cap space?
The Houston Texans are set for a big offseason in 2026, as the organization is expected to hand out several large contract extensions while also trying to improve in other areas. The franchise has been rather successful over the last three seasons, and improving on its weaknesses will be key going into the 2026 season. However, there are some other moves that Houston could consider that might help the organization in the long term.
One player to watch should be backup quarterback Davis Mills. He has plenty of experience and has proven to be reliable as a starter when he is needed, and there should be several franchises around the league that might be interested in him. He is of tremendous value to the Texans, so a trade could prove to be fruitful in terms of the return on draft compensation.
It isn't an overstatement to say that Mills is one of the best backup quarterbacks in the league. He started three games for Houston in 2025 and went undefeated, throwing 5 touchdowns and 1 interception. He protects the ball and is rather efficient at throwing the ball downfield.
Teams like the Minnesota Vikings, Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Jets, Miami Dolphins, and Arizona Cardinals should be interested in potentially acquiring Mills. The quarterback class in 2026 is weak, and all of those teams may need help at the position. Minnesota wants to bring in competition for J.J. McCarthy, while Pittsburgh is banking on Aaron Rodgers returning in 2026.
Mills should be able to net the Texans a couple of mid-round draft picks, and those could prove to be fruitful when it comes to addressing some weaknesses on the roster. The organization could also save roughly $6.4 million against the cap in 2026 by dealing him, which is something it should consider for the right price.
This would obviously be a risky move for Houston, given how C.J. Stroud played down the stretch in 2025. Keeping Mills around would give the franchise a safety net if Stroud continues to regress, although the organization has not shown any signs of giving up on its young quarterback.
This is a move the Texans should consider, and they will definitely have the option to do so, as Mills has proven he can be a reliable starter. He could serve as a bridge quarterback for an organization in need, and that is especially valuable when considering the strength of the quarterback position in the 2026 draft class.