HOUSTON — The Houston Texans opened their 2026 preseason with a 27-7 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday night at NRG Stadium.
Most of the key starters for both teams, including quarterback C.J. Stroud and Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert, did not play. The game served primarily as an evaluation opportunity for depth players and those competing for roster spots.
Game Recap
Houston took an early 7-3 lead when backup quarterback Davis Mills connected with wide receiver Jared Wayne on a 5-yard touchdown pass in the first quarter. Mills played with the starting offensive line on the opening series before giving way to Graham Mertz.
The Chargers responded and took control. Running back Amar Johnson scored on a 7-yard run in the second quarter and added a 1-yard touchdown in the fourth. Johnson also contributed a 55-yard reception that set up one of his scores. Los Angeles added field goals and a late touchdown pass from D.J. Uiagalelei to seal the 27-7 final.
Mills finished 9-of-15 for 82 yards and the touchdown. Mertz left the game late in the second quarter with an injury and did not return. There was no immediate update on the nature of the injury.
What It Means for the Texans
Head coach DeMeco Ryans has consistently framed preseason games as evaluation tools rather than results-driven contests. With Stroud and other established players held out, the focus remained on younger contributors and players fighting for the final spots on the 53-man roster.
The Texans’ offense struggled to sustain drives after the opening series. The defense faced extended time on the field as the Chargers’ depth players generated positive plays, particularly from Johnson and the backup quarterbacks.
Looking Ahead
Houston will return to practice and prepare for its second preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday, August 20, at 8:00 p.m. ET at NRG Stadium. That contest will air nationally on ESPN and is expected to provide another look at roster depth as final cuts approach.
Preseason remains about information. The Texans will continue evaluating personnel over the next two weeks before the regular season begins on September 13 against the Buffalo Bills.
