Davis Mills, the Houston Texans’ quarterback, has carved a unique path in the NFL, transitioning from a promising college prospect to a reliable backup with moments of brilliance as a starter. Known for his poise, intelligence, and ability to perform under pressure, Mills has become a figure of interest for football fans curious about his career trajectory, current role, and potential future in the league.
This article delves into the life, career, and latest developments surrounding Davis Mills, addressing the questions fans are asking online while providing an in-depth look at his journey. From his high school stardom to his role behind C.J. Stroud, we’ll explore what makes Mills a compelling figure in the NFL landscape.
Early Life and Background
Born on October 21, 1998, in Atlanta, Georgia, Davis Mills grew up in a family with a strong athletic background. His sisters, Erin and Ali, were accomplished tennis players at Tusculum and South Carolina, respectively, showcasing the family’s competitive spirit. Mills attended Greater Atlanta Christian School, where he emerged as a standout quarterback.
His high school career was nothing short of remarkable, with Mills amassing 6,290 passing yards and 66 touchdowns, earning him the title of Georgia’s career leader in touchdown passes and passing yards. Recognized as the nation’s top-ranked quarterback by recruiting services like Scout and Rivals, he was a three-time All-State selection, setting the stage for his collegiate career.
Collegiate Career at Stanford
Mills committed to Stanford University, where he played under head coach David Shaw. His college career, however, was hampered by injuries, limiting his playing time. He made his collegiate debut in 2018 against UC Davis, showcasing his potential with a strong arm and sharp decision-making.
In his final year at Stanford in 2020, Mills delivered a standout performance, passing for 428 yards on 32-of-47 completions with three touchdowns in a double-overtime victory against UCLA. Despite injury setbacks, his 1,508 passing yards and seven touchdowns in his senior year caught the attention of NFL scouts, positioning him as a draft prospect with significant upside.
NFL Draft and Entry into the Houston Texans
Drafted in 2021 In the 2021 NFL Draft, the Houston Texans selected Davis Mills in the third round (67th overall). The Texans were in a state of transition, grappling with uncertainty surrounding their former franchise quarterback, Deshaun Watson. Mills, seen as a developmental prospect with a high football IQ, was viewed as a potential long-term solution or, at the very least, a capable backup. His 6-foot-4, 225-pound frame and ability to make accurate deep throws made him an intriguing pick for a team looking to rebuild.
Rookie Season Challenges
Mills’ rookie season was a trial by fire. He stepped into the starting role early in 2021 after veteran quarterback Tyrod Taylor suffered a hamstring injury. Facing a Texans roster lacking in offensive weapons and plagued by organizational turmoil, Mills struggled initially. Over his first eight games, he averaged 175 passing yards per game with a 61% completion rate, throwing seven touchdowns against eight interceptions for a passer rating of 65.6.
Despite the rocky start, Mills showed signs of growth in his final five games, boosting his numbers to 251 yards per game, a 68% completion rate, nine touchdowns, and just two interceptions, achieving a 102.4 passer rating. This late-season improvement hinted at his potential to develop into a reliable starter.
The Rise of C.J. Stroud and Mills’ Transition to Backup
The arrival of C.J. Stroud, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, marked a turning point for Mills and the Texans. Head coach DeMeco Ryans emphasized that Stroud would not be handed the starting job, setting up a competitive quarterback battle during training camp. Mills, with two years of experience in the Texans’ system, approached the competition with the mindset of a starter, preparing diligently and showcasing his professionalism. However, Stroud’s exceptional talent and immediate impact secured him the starting role, relegating Mills to the backup position.
Backup Role and 2023 Season
In 2023, Mills embraced his role as Stroud’s backup, appearing in six games and completing 18 of 39 passes for 173 yards and two touchdowns. When Stroud missed Weeks 15 and 16 due to a concussion, veteran Case Keenum started over Mills, highlighting the Texans’ preference for experience in critical moments.
Despite this, Mills remained a valuable asset, with his familiarity with offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik’s scheme making him a dependable option. His limited action included a notable nine-yard touchdown pass to tight end Teagan Quitoriano during a preseason game, demonstrating his ability to make plays when called upon.
2024 Season and Contract Extension
The 2024 season saw Mills continue as the primary backup to Stroud. He appeared in four games, with his most significant contribution coming in Week 18 against the Tennessee Titans, where he completed 12 of 22 passes for 128 yards and rushed for 11 yards on three carries in a 23-14 victory.
This performance underscored his ability to manage games effectively when given the opportunity. Recognizing his value, the Texans signed Mills to a one-year, $5 million contract extension in September 2024, securing his services through the 2025 season. The deal included incentives based on playing time, reflecting the team’s confidence in his ability to step in if needed.
Performance Analysis and Playing Style
Mills’ playing style is characterized by his cerebral approach and accuracy on deep throws. His 2021 season demonstrated his ability to excel on passes of 20-plus yards, ranking 11th in both on-target and completion rates for deep attempts.
However, his lack of elite arm strength and limited mobility evidenced by minimal rushing contributions have been noted as areas for improvement. Mills’ 72.8% on-target percentage and 6.8 yards per attempt in his rookie season placed him in the lower tier of NFL quarterbacks, but his late-season improvement suggested potential for growth with better support.
In 2024, Mills’ overall grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF) was 68.5, ranking him 41st among 75 quarterbacks, with a passing grade of 64.0 (44th). These metrics reflect his competence as a backup but also highlight the gap between him and top-tier starters. His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions has been praised, but his lack of dynamic playmaking limits his ceiling as a starter.
Comparison to Peers
When compared to other quarterbacks from the 2021 draft class, such as Trevor Lawrence and Justin Fields, Mills’ career has taken a different trajectory. While Lawrence and Fields have secured starting roles, Mills’ development has been shaped by his role as a backup.
His 6,167 career passing yards and 35 touchdowns over 38 games are modest compared to his peers, but his efficiency in limited action suggests he could thrive in the right system. Analysts have noted that Mills’ situation in Houston, with a rebuilding roster in his early years, was less than ideal, making his performance respectable given the circumstances.
Current Role and Future Prospects
One of the most common questions fans ask is, “What is Davis Mills’ role with the Texans?” As of 2025, Mills is firmly entrenched as C.J. Stroud’s backup, a role he has embraced with professionalism. His recent contract extension signals the Texans’ trust in him as a reliable option should Stroud be unavailable.
However, fans also wonder, “Could Mills become a starter again?” While his 26 starts in 2021-22 showcased his potential, the Texans’ commitment to Stroud makes it unlikely for Mills to reclaim the starting role in Houston unless circumstances change dramatically. Trade rumors have surfaced periodically, with teams like the Minnesota Vikings mentioned as potential suitors, especially after injuries to their quarterbacks. However, no concrete trade offers have materialized.
Performance in Key Games
Fans frequently search for Mills’ performance in specific games, such as his Week 18 outing against the Titans in 2024. His 128 passing yards and 11 rushing yards in that game demonstrated his ability to manage a game effectively, though he didn’t produce standout numbers. Another common query is about his touchdown passes, such as the one to Nico Collins in 2023, which highlighted his chemistry with Houston’s emerging wide receiver. These moments keep fans intrigued about what Mills could achieve with more opportunities.
Contract Details and Trade Rumors
The $5 million extension signed in 2024 has sparked questions about Mills’ market value. Fans are curious about the incentives included in the deal and whether it positions him for a future trade. The extension reflects the Texans’ strategy to maintain depth at quarterback, but it also keeps Mills as an attractive trade candidate for teams needing a young, experienced backup or bridge starter. Posts on X have speculated about Mills’ fit with teams like the Vikings, but these remain speculative without official confirmation.
Comparisons to C.J. Stroud
Another frequent question is how Mills compares to Stroud. While Stroud’s dynamic playmaking and arm talent have made him the clear franchise quarterback, Mills offers a different skill set. His methodical approach and familiarity with the Texans’ system make him a valuable insurance policy. Fans appreciate Mills’ professionalism, as seen in his comments about preparing as if he were the starter, but most agree that Stroud’s ceiling is significantly higher.
Off-Field Presence and Personal Life
Mills maintains a low-key presence off the field. He is active on Instagram under the handle “millsions,” where he shares glimpses of his life and career. Unlike some NFL players, Mills keeps his personal life relatively private, focusing on football-related content. His professionalism and work ethic have earned praise from coaches and teammates, with head coach DeMeco Ryans noting his preparedness and competitive mindset.
Community Involvement: While specific details about Mills’ community involvement are less documented, his role as a Texans player involves participation in team-led initiatives. The Texans are known for their community outreach, and as a member of the organization, Mills likely contributes to these efforts, though he keeps a lower profile compared to star players like Stroud.
Challenges and Criticisms
Mills faced significant challenges early in his career, particularly in 2021-22, when he started 26 games for a Texans team with a depleted roster. Critics pointed to his 23rd-ranked on-target percentage and 25th-ranked yards per attempt as evidence of his limitations. The lack of consistent pass-catchers, aside from Brandin Cooks, and a porous offensive line didn’t help. However, his improvement late in his rookie season silenced some doubters, showing he could adapt with experience.
Limited Mobility: One consistent criticism is Mills’ lack of mobility. Unlike dual-threat quarterbacks like Jalen Hurts or Justin Fields, Mills is a pocket passer who rarely contributes with his legs. His 11 rushing yards in Week 18 of 2024 were notable but not indicative of a running threat. This limitation makes him less versatile in today’s NFL, where mobility is increasingly valued.
The Future for Davis Mills
While Mills is likely to remain Stroud’s backup in 2025, his future beyond Houston is a topic of speculation. At 26 years old, he is young enough to attract interest from teams needing a bridge starter or a high-upside backup. His experience in high-pressure situations and familiarity with modern NFL offenses make him an appealing option. Teams like the Vikings, Jets, or others with quarterback uncertainty could view Mills as a low-risk, high-reward addition.
Trade Possibilities
Trade rumors have persisted, particularly after the Texans’ commitment to Stroud and the signing of Case Keenum. Mills’ $5 million extension includes incentives that could make him more attractive in a trade, as his contract is cost-effective for a player with 38 games of experience. However, the Texans value his depth, and any trade would likely require a compelling offer, such as a mid-round draft pick.
Long-Term Development
Mills’ development will depend on his ability to refine his skills and adapt to new systems if traded. His deep-ball accuracy and football IQ are assets, but improving his decision-making under pressure and adding subtle pocket mobility could elevate his game. If he remains with the Texans, he’ll continue to benefit from working in Slowik’s offense, which has helped Stroud thrive.
FAQs
What were Davis Mills’ college stats?
During his time at Stanford, Mills showcased his potential as a starting quarterback. In the 2019 season, he completed 158 of 241 passes for 1,960 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions. Notably, he set a school record with 504 passing yards in a single game .
What is Davis Mills’ NFL career like?
As of the end of the 2024 NFL season, Mills has played in 39 games, starting 21. He has accumulated 6,167 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, and 25 interceptions, with a passer rating of 82.6 . In 2024, he appeared in 5 games, throwing for 212 yards, 0 touchdowns, and 0 interceptions, with a passer rating of 72.9 .
What are Davis Mills’ strengths and weaknesses?
Mills is known for his strong arm, quick release, and ability to make all the necessary throws. However, he has faced challenges with consistency and decision-making, particularly under pressure. His performance in the 2024 season reflected these areas, as he had no touchdowns and no interceptions in his appearances.
Where can I watch Davis Mills in action?
You can watch Davis Mills’ games on various sports networks, including ESPN, NFL Network, and local broadcasters. Additionally, highlights and game footage are available on the Houston Texans’ official website and YouTube channel.
In Summary
Davis Mills’ journey in the NFL is a testament to resilience and adaptability. From a high school phenom to a Stanford standout and now a dependable backup for the Houston Texans, Mills has navigated challenges with poise. His 2024 season and contract extension highlight his value to the Texans, while trade rumors and fan curiosity keep his future in the spotlight.
Whether he remains in Houston or finds a new opportunity elsewhere, Mills’ intelligence, work ethic, and flashes of potential ensure he’ll remain a player to watch. As the NFL evolves, Mills’ story is far from over, and fans will continue to follow his career with interest.
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