How Devlin Hodges Transitioned from NFL Quarterback to Real Estate Pro—and Met Lainey Wilson
Devlin “Duck” Hodges’ story is a tale of transformation, ambition, and love. From his days as an NFL quarterback to his current career as a real estate professional, Hodges’ journey exemplifies the power of reinvention. Alongside this shift in his professional life, he’s also found love with country music sensation Lainey Wilson, a relationship that has captivated both sports and music fans alike. Let’s dive deeper into how Devlin’s career pivot happened, how he met Lainey, and how their relationship continues to thrive.
Devlin Hodges: The NFL Quarterback
Before entering the world of real estate, Devlin “Duck” Hodges was a standout football player. Born in 1996 in the small town of McCalla, Alabama, Devlin’s athletic talent became evident early on. He attended Samford University, where he became the all-time leader in passing yards for the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). His exceptional performance at Samford earned him recognition and attention from NFL scouts.
In 2019, Devlin signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent. He played seven games during his rookie season, showing flashes of his potential as a quarterback. Hodges impressed with his strong arm, poise under pressure, and leadership qualities. However, despite his early success, his journey in the NFL wasn’t without its challenges.
Following his time with the Steelers, Devlin joined the Los Angeles Rams before making a brief stop in the Canadian Football League (CFL) with the Ottawa Redblacks. In 2022, after years of moving between teams and leagues, Hodges made the decision to retire from professional football. His announcement was filled with gratitude for the experiences he had gained, especially his time in the CFL. Hodges thanked the CFL fans for their unwavering support, particularly the passionate “RNation.”
The Duck Nickname: A Fun College Memory
One of the most endearing aspects of Devlin’s personality is his nickname, “Duck.” While many athletes have nicknames that reflect their prowess on the field, Devlin’s moniker is a bit more unique. It originated during his college days at Samford University, where his coach gave him the nickname after comparing him to another great quarterback who had been affectionately called “Duck.” The name stuck, and it became a fun part of his persona both on and off the field. Devlin even embraces his love of hunting and often shares moments of duck hunting with his followers on social media.
A New Chapter: Transition to Real Estate
Retiring from football may have been a difficult decision, but it wasn’t long before Devlin Hodges found a new passion in real estate. The transition from the NFL to real estate wasn’t entirely unexpected; Hodges had always been interested in exploring business opportunities outside of football. His journey into real estate started in 2022 when he began working with the Mossy Oak Properties group in Louisiana. Specializing in rural properties, hunting land, and residential real estate, Hodges quickly found his footing in the industry.
Devlin’s ability to connect with people, honed during his time in football, proved invaluable in his new career. Real estate, much like football, requires persistence, negotiation skills, and a keen understanding of people’s needs. Hodges has stated that he applies the same work ethic and drive to his real estate career that made him a successful athlete. His positive attitude and enthusiasm for his new venture are evident, and he continues to grow his real estate portfolio, traveling between Arkansas and Nashville to pursue opportunities.
Meeting Lainey Wilson: A Serendipitous Connection
In 2021, Devlin Hodges’ life took a new and exciting turn when he met Lainey Wilson, the rising country music star known for her hit songs and acting role in Yellowstone. The couple was introduced through mutual friends in Nashville, the heart of country music. The initial connection was simple but genuine. Wilson recalled that their first date took place at a dance hall and saloon, where free beer was served from 5 to 10 PM. Lainey’s comment, “This boy likes to ball on a budget too. This is gonna work out,” highlights the down-to-earth nature of their relationship from the very beginning.
Though their chemistry was undeniable, the couple decided to keep their romance private for nearly two years. They avoided the public eye and focused on getting to know each other without the pressure of media attention. In 2023, the couple finally went public, walking the red carpet together at the 58th Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards. That night, Lainey Wilson won four prestigious awards, a testament to her rising stardom. Devlin stood proudly by her side, supporting her career and celebrating her success.
A Love Built on Trust and Support
Lainey Wilson has spoken openly about how Devlin has become her biggest cheerleader. In interviews, she described their relationship as “healthy,” filled with mutual respect and love. Devlin, for his part, has always supported Lainey’s career, from her music to her acting role on Yellowstone. Their relationship is built on trust, and Lainey credits Devlin for helping her realize that she could write love songs—something she had struggled with in the past because she didn’t know if she had truly felt love. “I’m writing me some love songs now. I’m grateful for him,” she shared in a profile with People magazine.
The couple’s strong bond is evident in how they navigate their public lives. Lainey has often referred to music icon Dolly Parton as a role model for her personal and professional life. Parton’s long-lasting marriage to Carl Thomas Dean has been a source of inspiration, especially when it comes to managing fame and maintaining privacy. Lainey and Devlin have adopted a similar approach, keeping details of their relationship private to avoid unnecessary scrutiny and speculation. “The less we put out there, the less that we’re going to have to deal with people making anything up,” Lainey explained.
The Future: Balancing Careers and Love
As their careers continue to thrive, Devlin Hodges and Lainey Wilson are focused on balancing their professional lives with their personal happiness. Devlin’s real estate career is steadily growing, and Lainey’s music and acting career are on an upward trajectory. Despite the public nature of their individual careers, the couple seems committed to maintaining a sense of normalcy and privacy when it comes to their relationship.
For Devlin, transitioning from NFL quarterback to real estate agent is more than just a career shift—it’s a chance to build a fulfilling life post-football. He enjoys the challenge of learning new skills and applying them to his business. His time in the NFL taught him the value of discipline, hard work, and perseverance, qualities he now channels into his real estate ventures. As he continues to expand his business and grow his reputation, Devlin remains focused on his long-term goals, both professionally and personally.
For Lainey, Devlin’s unwavering support has provided her with the confidence to pursue her passions wholeheartedly. Together, they have cultivated a healthy and stable relationship that serves as a foundation for their individual and shared dreams.
Lessons from Devlin’s Transition
Devlin Hodges’ career transition provides valuable lessons for anyone looking to reinvent themselves after a major life change. His story shows that it’s possible to pivot successfully, even after reaching the peak of a high-profile career. For athletes, this means embracing new opportunities and adapting skills learned in sports to new ventures. For anyone considering a career change, Devlin’s example is proof that hard work, determination, and a willingness to learn can lead to success in any field.
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Conclusion: A Story of Growth and Love
FAQs About Devlin Hodges’ Transition to Real Estate and His Relationship with Lainey Wilson
1. How did Devlin Hodges make the switch from the NFL to real estate?
After retiring from football, Devlin Hodges found a new passion in real estate. He joined Mossy Oak Properties in 2022, focusing on rural and residential real estate. His ability to connect with people and his strong work ethic, developed during his NFL career, helped him quickly adapt to the industry.
2. How did Devlin Hodges meet Lainey Wilson?
Devlin and Lainey were introduced through mutual friends in Nashville in 2021. Their first date took place at a dance hall, and the couple kept their relationship private for almost two years before going public in 2023 at the ACM Awards.
3. What is the story behind Devlin Hodges’ nickname, “Duck”?
Devlin earned the nickname “Duck” during his time at Samford University. His coach compared him to another quarterback who had the same nickname, and it stuck. Devlin embraces the moniker, even sharing his love for duck hunting on social media.
4. How does Devlin Hodges balance his career and relationship with Lainey Wilson?
Devlin and Lainey maintain a strong, private relationship while supporting each other’s careers. Devlin has been a steady support for Lainey, and their relationship is built on mutual respect and trust. They keep their personal lives private to avoid unnecessary media scrutiny.
5. What lessons can be learned from Devlin Hodges’ career transition?
Devlin’s successful transition from professional sports to real estate teaches us that it’s never too late to pursue a new path. His story emphasizes the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and using the skills learned in one field to excel in another.
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