Texans Mertz leads Texans to preseason-ending 26-7 win over Lions The rookie QB out of Florida is hoping to make the 53-man roster. Credit: (AP Photo/Paul Sancya) Houston Texans quarterback Graham Mertz (18) throws a pass against the Detroit Lions Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, in Detroit. Author: Associated Press Published: 9:23 PM CDT August 23, 2025 Updated: 9:23 PM CDT August 23, 2025 DETROIT — Texans rookie Graham Mertz made a bid to earn a spot on a 53-man roster or at least an invite to be on a practice team. Mertz led the Texans to a preseason-ending 26-7 win over the Lions in Detroit Saturday. “I’m really proud of Graham with the way he commanded the offense,” Houston coach DeMeco Ryans said.