In the realm of professional football, stories of underdogs rising to prominence captivate fans and inspire aspiring athletes. One such narrative is that of Devlin Hodges, affectionately known as “Duck,” whose unexpected ascent from an undrafted rookie to an NFL starting quarterback is a testament to perseverance and talent.
Early Life and Passion for Football
Born on April 12, 1996, in Kimberly, Alabama, Devlin Patrick Hodges exhibited an early passion for football. Attending Mortimer Jordan High School, he showcased his skills as a quarterback, yet remained under the radar of major college recruiters. This oversight led him to Samford University, a smaller Division I school, where he would soon make history.
Record-Breaking College Career at Samford University
At Samford, Hodges became a four-year starter, rewriting the record books with his exceptional performances. He was a three-time Southern Conference Offensive Player of the Year and clinched the prestigious Walter Payton Award in 2018, honoring the top offensive player in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). By the end of his collegiate career, Hodges had amassed 14,584 passing yards, surpassing the previous FCS record held by Steve McNair.
Devlin Hodges’ College Achievements
| Achievement | Year(s) |
|---|---|
| Southern Conference Offensive Player of the Year | 2016, 2017, 2018 |
| Walter Payton Award | 2018 |
| FCS Career Passing Yards Leader | 2018 |
The Unconventional Path to the NFL
Despite his stellar college career, Hodges went undrafted in the 2019 NFL Draft. Undeterred, he signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent. Initially waived during final roster cuts, Hodges was re-signed to the practice squad and soon promoted to the active roster following an injury to starting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.
Rising to the Occasion with the Pittsburgh Steelers
Hodges’ NFL debut came unexpectedly during a game against the Baltimore Ravens in October 2019, following an injury to backup quarterback Mason Rudolph. Demonstrating poise under pressure, he completed seven of nine passes for 68 yards. His first start occurred the following week against the Los Angeles Chargers, where he led the Steelers to a 24-17 victory, throwing for 132 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
The “Duck” Nickname: A Unique Moniker
Hodges earned the nickname “Duck” due to his prowess in duck calling. He won the 2009 Junior World Duck Calling Contest at the age of 13 and later clinched the 2018 Alabama State Duck Calling Championship. This unique talent endeared him to fans and added a distinctive charm to his persona.
Challenges and Transitions
While Hodges’ initial performances were promising, he faced challenges as defenses adapted. He concluded the 2019 season with 1,063 passing yards, five touchdowns, and eight interceptions over eight games. In subsequent years, Hodges had brief stints with the Los Angeles Rams and the Ottawa Redblacks of the Canadian Football League before announcing his retirement from professional football in April 2022.
Life Beyond Football
Beyond the gridiron, Hodges has maintained a presence in the public eye. In May 2023, he confirmed his relationship with country music artist Lainey Wilson, and by February 2025, the couple announced their engagement.
