The Ring And The QB: 5 Jaw-Dropping Facts About Lainey Wilson’s Fiancé, Devlin “Duck” Hodges

The world of country music has been buzzing since the announcement: Lainey Wilson is engaged! The reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year has always kept her personal life fiercely private, but in a heartwarming reveal, she confirmed that her long-time love, former NFL quarterback Devlin “Duck” Hodges, popped the question. This news, which broke on February 12, 2025, has instantly made Hodges one of the most talked-about figures in Nashville, transitioning from a beloved football star to the future husband of a global music sensation.

This article dives deep into the man who captured the heart of the "Watermelon Moonshine" singer, providing the most current and comprehensive look at their relationship, his impressive career, and the intimate details of their recent engagement. From his record-breaking days on the football field to his successful pivot into real estate, here is everything you need to know about Devlin "Duck" Hodges.

Devlin “Duck” Hodges: Biography, Career, and Profile

Devlin Patrick Hodges, known universally by his unique nickname, "Duck," has a background that is as compelling and successful as Lainey Wilson’s own rise to fame. Born on April 12, 1996, Hodges has built a career that spans professional athletics and a burgeoning business empire.

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• Full Name: Devlin Patrick Hodges
• Nickname: "Duck" (A moniker earned due to his passionate interest in duck hunting, a hobby he shares with his father).
• Date of Birth: April 12, 1996
• Place of Birth: Kimberly, Alabama
• Height/Weight: 6'1" / 210 lbs.
• College: Samford University (2014–2018)
• Major Accolades: Walter Payton Award winner (2018), NCAA Division I FCS record holder for career passing yards.
• NFL Career: Quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers (2019–2020). He notably led the Steelers to a 3-3-0 record as a starter.
• Post-NFL Career: Successful Real Estate Agent. He is currently affiliated with Myers Cobb Realtors, leveraging his extensive connections from both the football and country music communities in Nashville.
• Relationship Status: Engaged to Lainey Wilson (Announced February 12, 2025).

Hodges’ journey from a small-town Alabama boy to an NFL quarterback is a testament to his grit. His time at Samford University was legendary, culminating in him winning the prestigious Walter Payton Award in 2018, which is given to the most outstanding offensive player in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).

From Private Dating to a Public Engagement: The Timeline

The romance between the country superstar and the former football pro is a masterclass in keeping a high-profile relationship grounded and out of the spotlight. Their love story is a slow burn that only recently became public knowledge, adding to the excitement of their engagement.

2021: The Secret Beginning

Lainey Wilson and Devlin Hodges were first introduced by mutual friends in Nashville back in 2021. Despite the immediate connection, the couple made a conscious decision to keep their relationship completely private for nearly two years. This period allowed them to build a solid, authentic foundation away from the intense media scrutiny that follows a rising star like Wilson. Lainey Wilson is known for her authentic songwriting, and this commitment to privacy reflects a desire to keep her personal life real.

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2023: Going Public

The couple made their public debut in a fun and memorable way in May 2023, when Hodges was spotted wearing a T-shirt that read "Reserved for Lainey Wilson" at the ACM Awards. This playful reveal instantly confirmed the long-standing rumors and delighted fans who had been speculating about the identity of Wilson's boyfriend. Shortly after, Lainey Wilson officially confirmed the relationship in a June 2023 interview, calling Hodges a "good dude."

February 2025: The Engagement Announcement

The relationship reached its peak with the announcement of their engagement on February 12, 2025. The news was shared via a heartfelt Instagram carousel featuring the couple and a stunning look at the engagement ring. Lainey Wilson herself described the proposal as intentional and intimate, a reflection of their private nature. The announcement used the caption “4x4xU Forever,” a nod to both Wilson’s country roots and the deep commitment they share.

The Stunning Engagement Ring and Wedding Talk

For a star whose style is as unique as her sound, it’s no surprise that Lainey Wilson’s engagement ring is a one-of-a-kind piece. The ring, which has been described as a "stunning cluster of elegance," features a cluster of diamonds rather than a single solitaire. This distinct design perfectly complements Wilson’s bold and authentic aesthetic, moving away from traditional styles and embracing something more personalized and meaningful.

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While the couple has just announced their engagement, speculation about their wedding plans is already rampant. Wilson has hinted that she wants the wedding to be as intentional and intimate as the proposal. Given their shared love for their Southern roots and authentic lifestyle, fans expect a wedding that is both romantic and deeply personal, likely taking place in a private setting away from the Nashville noise.

Devlin Hodges: From NFL Quarterback to Real Estate Mogul

One of the most fascinating aspects of Devlin Hodges’ life is his successful transition from the high-pressure world of the National Football League (NFL) to the competitive Nashville real estate market. After his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Hodges made a strategic pivot that has proven to be highly lucrative.

The "Duck" Nickname and Hunting Passion

Hodges' famous nickname, "Duck," is a key part of his personal brand and directly ties into his life outside of sports and music. His passion for duck hunting is so profound that it became his identity in the football world. This authentic, outdoorsy persona is a perfect match for Lainey Wilson's own "Bell Bottom Country" brand, which celebrates a down-to-earth, genuine Southern lifestyle.

A Career in Real Estate

Hodges’ current career as a real estate agent in Nashville is thriving. He works with Myers Cobb Realtors and has been successful due to his vast network of contacts. His connections from his NFL days, combined with his new ties to the country music industry through Lainey Wilson, have given him a unique advantage in the Tennessee market. This career path demonstrates a strong business acumen and a commitment to building a stable life outside of the constant travel and demands of professional sports.

The relationship between Lainey Wilson and Devlin "Duck" Hodges is a true modern-day love story, blending the worlds of sports and country music with a refreshing dose of privacy and authenticity. As they move forward with their engagement, fans are celebrating the pairing of two driven, successful, and genuinely kind individuals who are clearly building a beautiful "Bell Bottom Country" future together.