The third day of the 2025 NFL Draft saw several quarterbacks come off the board, including big names like Shedeur Sanders, Kyle McCord, and Quinn Ewers. But the most intriguing pick of the group might be former Florida quarterback Graham Mertz, selected by the Houston Texans in the sixth round with the 197th overall pick.
There’s a strong case that Mertz could become a major value pick, starting with what he’s shown on the field. In limited action last season, Mertz outperformed DJ Lagway—who many project as a top-five quarterback and potential high first-round pick—in several key areas. Mertz posted a 77% completion rate in five games, compared to Lagway’s 60%, and had a significantly better touchdown-to-interception ratio. Lagway may have the superior physical tools, including arm strength, but Mertz was more efficient and effective when actually on the field.
Mertz’s 2023 season was also impressive. He set Florida records with a 73% completion rate while throwing for 2,903 yards, 20 touchdowns, and just three interceptions. He passed for 311 yards and a touchdown against LSU and had 230 yards and two scores against Georgia. Despite Florida’s overall struggles that year, Mertz’s production was not the issue.
A true leader
Beyond the stats, Mertz brings several traits that give him a shot to stick in the NFL. He’s known for his high football IQ and consistent decision-making, with 26 touchdowns and only five interceptions over the past two seasons. Coaches and teammates have credited him for helping Lagway get up to speed as a true freshman, which speaks to Mertz's leadership and grasp of the playbook.
"Graham is one of the more impressive young men I’ve ever been around, one of my favorite players to coach. I respect the example, I respect the standards he sets for the entire organization."Florida head coach Billy Napier
He’s also solid under pressure. In 2023, Pro Football Focus graded him as the top quarterback draft prospect when pressured, with an 80.5 mark. That was despite playing behind a weak offensive line and lacking high-end weapons. He consistently got the ball out quickly, averaging 2.72 seconds per throw compared to Shedeur Sanders’ 3.0 seconds.
Leadership is another area where Mertz shines. Even after a season-ending knee injury in 2024, he earned Florida’s GatorMade Danny Wuerffel “Man of the Year” award for his character and leadership on and off the field. The fact his teammates voted him in for that honor despite his injury speaks volumes.
In 2025, Mertz will likely spend the season as Houston’s third-string quarterback. But with Davis Mills set to become a free agent, Mertz has a real chance to move up the depth chart in 2026 and serve as the backup behind C.J. Stroud. If he performs well when given the chance, his career could follow a similar arc to Marc Bulger, a sixth-rounder in 2000 who eventually made two Pro Bowls after starting behind Kurt Warner. While it’s unlikely Mertz becomes the starter in Houston, he could show enough to earn a shot elsewhere and develop into a well-regarded NFL quarterback.