Texans Depth Chart Update: Davis Mills Starts Again as C.J. Stroud Misses Week 12

The Texans depth chart has shifted again as Davis Mills starts in Week 12. C.J. Stroud remains out with a concussion suffered in Week 9. Houston faces the Buffalo Bills on Thursday night in a high pressure prime time matchup.

The Texans confirmed Stroud’s status earlier this week. The quarterback is still in the NFL’s concussion protocol. Mills now makes his third straight start at a key point in Houston’s season.

Latest Week 12 Situation on the Texans Depth Chart

Davis Mills enters Thursday’s game with back to back wins. He led the Texans to a comeback against Jacksonville in Week 10. He then delivered another late game win over Tennessee in Week 11. His poise has become a major storyline for Houston.

Stroud’s concussion remains the biggest factor. According to reporting from ESPN, he returned to practice on November 18 but was not cleared. Medical staff decided to hold him out again. The Texans have taken a conservative approach to protect their franchise quarterback.

Houston’s offensive depth chart remains stable. Nico Collins continues as the primary receiving option. Woody Marks has taken more snaps with Joe Mixon managing a long term foot issue. Dalton Schultz keeps his usual role at tight end. Head coach DeMeco Ryans has emphasized simplicity and continuity despite the quarterback change.

Buffalo presents a major test. The Bills defense ranks among the league’s strongest units. Josh Allen carries a top tier offense. National outlets including AP and CNN have highlighted Buffalo’s November surge. Houston will need another clean game from Mills to stay competitive.

Even with the pressure, Mills has shown improvement. His decision making has tightened. His timing with Collins and Schultz is stronger than early in the year. His Week 12 start gives him another chance to secure key wins while Stroud recovers.

How the Quarterback Shift Affects Houston Moving Forward

This depth chart change places weight on Houston’s playoff hopes. The AFC race is tight. Each result in November matters. Mills now plays with expectations that were not there two months ago.

Stroud’s timeline remains unclear. Concussion recoveries vary by player. The Texans have not committed to a return date. Ryans has repeated that Stroud’s health comes first. With Mills performing well, Houston can stay patient.

The Texans depth chart will stay in focus through Thanksgiving week. Mills gets the next opportunity while Stroud continues recovery. Houston hopes stability at quarterback brings another strong performance on Thursday night.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the current Texans depth chart at quarterback?

Davis Mills is starting in Week 12. C.J. Stroud is out with a concussion. He remains in the protocol.

Q2: Why is C.J. Stroud missing the Bills game?

Stroud suffered a concussion in Week 9. He has not been cleared to return. The team is being cautious.

Q3: Has Davis Mills won games this season?

Yes. Mills is 2-0 in his last two starts. Both wins came in tight situations.

Q4: Can Houston compete with Buffalo?

The Bills are a tough matchup. Mills must play clean football. Houston needs strong defense and time of possession.

Q5: When will Stroud return?

There is no confirmed date. His status depends on medical clearance. The Texans want him fully ready.