5 Shocking Details About Lainey Wilson’s Fiancé, Devlin “Duck” Hodges: The Full Love Story

Country music superstar Lainey Wilson is officially off the market, and the latest news, as of December 2025, is that she is engaged to her longtime "boyfriend," former NFL quarterback Devlin "Duck" Hodges. The couple, who kept their relationship intensely private for two years, made headlines when they publicly announced their engagement in February 2025, confirming a romance that began back in 2021. This deep dive reveals everything you need to know about the man who captured the heart of the "Bell Bottom Country" queen, from his unexpected career pivot to the intimate details of their first date that inspired a song.

The highly-anticipated news of their engagement has solidified their status as one of country music's newest power couples, making their first red carpet appearance as an engaged duo at the 2025 ACM Awards and later stunning fans at the 2025 CMA Awards. While Lainey Wilson's career continues its meteoric rise—from her breakout role on *Yellowstone* to her multiple major awards—her personal life with Devlin Hodges has become a source of fascination for fans eager to learn more about the man behind the nickname.

Lainey Wilson: A Comprehensive Biography and Rise to Stardom

Before diving into the details of her engagement, it's essential to understand the powerhouse that is Lainey Wilson. Her journey from a small-town Louisiana native to a global country music and acting sensation is a testament to her talent and relentless work ethic.

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Lainey Wilson Profile:

• Full Name: Lainey Denay Wilson
• Date of Birth: May 19, 1992
• Hometown: Baskin, Louisiana, USA
• Genre: Country Music, Country-Rock
• Key Albums: *Sayin' What I'm Thinkin'* (2021), *Bell Bottom Country* (2022)
• Acting Role: Abby on the hit TV series *Yellowstone*
• Career Milestones: Multiple CMA and ACM Awards, including Female Vocalist of the Year and Album of the Year.

Wilson’s signature "Bell Bottom Country" style—a blend of traditional country, rock, and funk—has resonated with millions, leading to chart-topping hits like "Heart Like a Truck" and "Things a Man Oughta Know." Her authenticity and dedication to her craft are what initially drew her dedicated fanbase, and she has consistently used her platform to champion her small-town roots and unique style. The singer famously lived in a camper trailer outside Nashville for years while pursuing her dream, showcasing a grit that is now reflected in her musical success.

The Full Love Story: How Lainey Wilson Met Her Fiancé, Devlin "Duck" Hodges

Lainey Wilson and Devlin "Duck" Hodges' romance is a modern-day fairy tale rooted in mutual friends and a shared love for the simple things. Their relationship timeline is a perfect example of keeping a good thing private until the time is right, which has only added to the intrigue surrounding their relationship.

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A Secret Romance Blossoms in Nashville

The couple first met in Nashville, Tennessee, through mutual friends. While Lainey Wilson was deep into her skyrocketing career, Devlin Hodges was transitioning out of his professional football career. Their connection was instant, leading to a first date that has now been immortalized in a song.

Wilson has recounted that their very first date took place at a low-key, local spot called Silverados, which she later referred to as "this old place" in interviews. This memorable night inspired her to write a song, "Yesterday, All Day, Every Day," chronicling the moment she met her future fiancé. The decision to keep their relationship private for nearly two years, only confirming it in mid-2023, allowed them to build a strong foundation away from the intense media spotlight that comes with Lainey's fame.

The February 2025 Engagement Announcement

The biggest news broke in February 2025 when Lainey Wilson and Devlin Hodges announced their engagement, much to the delight of the country music world. The proposal marked the end of his status as her "boyfriend" and the beginning of a new chapter as her fiancé. The couple celebrated by making their first official red carpet appearance as an engaged couple at the 2025 ACM Awards, where Wilson proudly showed off her new engagement ring.

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Their relationship is often characterized by a strong sense of mutual support. Hodges, in particular, has been credited by Wilson for helping her navigate the financial complexities of her rapid success, even stopping her from making a major financial mistake early on. This partnership dynamic highlights a deep trust and commitment that goes beyond the glitz and glamour of their respective careers.

Who is Devlin "Duck" Hodges? From NFL Quarterback to Real Estate and Engagement

Devlin Patrick Hodges, known universally by his nickname "Duck," is a fascinating figure in his own right. His professional background is a world away from the country music scene, adding an element of surprise to his relationship with Lainey Wilson.

The Football Career of "Duck" Hodges

Born on April 12, 1996, in Kimberly, Alabama, Hodges earned his famous nickname early in life due to his passion for duck hunting. His athletic career flourished at Samford University, where he was a standout quarterback. He became the most decorated football player in Samford history, notably earning the Southern Conference Offensive Player of the Year award three times.

After college, Hodges entered the world of the National Football League (NFL). He signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he played as a quarterback, gaining national recognition for his play on the professional stage. While his time in the NFL was relatively short, it established him as a competitive athlete with a strong work ethic.

A New Chapter in Real Estate

Following his time in professional football, Hodges successfully transitioned into the business world. He is now a successful real estate professional working for Myers Cobb Realtors, based in Memphis, Tennessee. This career pivot demonstrates his versatility and drive, qualities that clearly appeal to the equally driven Lainey Wilson. His success in real estate highlights a grounded, stable life that complements Wilson's demanding schedule as a touring artist and actress.

The couple's future is undoubtedly bright. With Lainey Wilson continuing to dominate the country music charts and Devlin Hodges building his successful career in real estate, their engagement marks a beautiful new milestone. Fans are eagerly awaiting more details about their wedding plans and how their love story, which began with a simple date at "this old place," will continue to unfold, proving that sometimes, the most authentic love stories are the ones kept quiet until they are ready to shine.