Devlin Hodges: The Underdog Quarterback Who Defied the Odds
Introduction:
In the annals of American football, the story of Devlin Hodges stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of perseverance and the power of seizing unexpected opportunities. As an undrafted free agent, Hodges defied all expectations to become a starting quarterback in the NFL, leading his team to a series of improbable victories and capturing the hearts of fans worldwide.
Early Life and College Career:
Devlin Hodges was born on April 19, 1994, in Trussville, Alabama. From a young age, he displayed an exceptional talent for football, showcasing his athleticism and leadership abilities. After graduating high school, Hodges enrolled at Samford University, a Division I FCS school, where he quickly established himself as a prolific passer.
During his four years at Samford, Hodges rewrote the school’s record books, becoming the Bulldogs’ all-time leader in passing yards (12,265), touchdowns (114), and completions (970). He also earned numerous accolades, including being named the Southern Conference Offensive Player of the Year in 2017 and 2018.
Undrafted Journey to the NFL:
Despite his impressive college career, Hodges went undrafted in the 2019 NFL Draft. Undeterred, he signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers as a free agent and spent the preseason competing for a roster spot. With injuries sidelining several quarterbacks, Hodges seized his chance and impressed the coaching staff with his poise, accuracy, and leadership.
Unexpected Rise to Stardom:
In Week 6 of the 2019 season, Hodges made his NFL debut against the Los Angeles Chargers. Despite being a significant underdog, Hodges led the Steelers to a stunning 24-17 victory, throwing for 132 yards and a touchdown. The following week, he started against the Miami Dolphins and once again guided the Steelers to a 27-14 win.
Hodges’ remarkable performances continued throughout the season, as he led the Steelers to a 3-1 record in his four starts. He became known for his quick decision-making, ability to extend plays, and infectious enthusiasm. Fans and analysts alike were amazed by his underdog story and the way he had transformed the Steelers’ offense.
"Duck Dynasty" and the Hodges Hype:
Hodges’ rise to stardom was accompanied by a unique and endearing personal style. With his long beard and mustache, he resembled the characters from the popular television show "Duck Dynasty." This led to the nickname "Duck Dynasty" being bestowed upon him by fans and media outlets.
The "Duck Dynasty" hype surrounding Hodges added to his popularity and made him a beloved figure in Pittsburgh and beyond. His jersey sales skyrocketed, and he became a social media sensation, with his Twitter account gaining hundreds of thousands of followers.
Return to Backup Role and Future Outlook:
After a promising start to his NFL career, Hodges’ playing time diminished in the following seasons. With the Steelers acquiring veteran quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, Hodges returned to a backup role. However, he continued to work hard and remained a valuable member of the team, providing support and guidance to younger players.
As Roethlisberger retired following the 2021 season, the Steelers once again turned to Hodges as a potential starter. However, he lost out on the starting job to rookie quarterback Kenny Pickett. Hodges is currently a free agent and is exploring his options for the 2023 season.
Legacy and Impact:
Devlin Hodges’ journey from undrafted free agent to starting NFL quarterback is a story of resilience, determination, and seizing opportunities. He proved that with hard work and belief in oneself, anything is possible.
Hodges’ impact on the Steelers and the NFL was significant. He provided a spark of hope and excitement during a challenging time for the franchise. His underdog story resonated with fans and inspired countless aspiring athletes.
Conclusion:
Devlin Hodges’ legacy as an NFL quarterback may not be defined by his statistics or accolades, but by the way he defied expectations and became a symbol of perseverance and the power of belief. His story serves as a reminder that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a never-say-die attitude.
