Devlin Hodges: From Undrafted to NFL Fan Favorite

Humble Beginnings and Collegiate Dominance

For a fleeting moment, Devlin Hodges, a quarterback who defied expectations, became an unlikely folk hero in the National Football League. The story of an undrafted free agent from Samford University, rising through the ranks of the Pittsburgh Steelers, captivated fans not only in the Steel City but across the country. His journey, interwoven with duck calls and unwavering determination, stands as a reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected individuals can seize opportunity and ignite the passions of a fanbase. Devlin Hodges’s story is a testament to the power of opportunity, hard work, and the unwavering support of a fanbase, even if his NFL career was ultimately short-lived.

The path to the NFL is rarely paved with ease, especially for those who go unselected in the annual draft. Devlin Hodges’s journey began far from the bright lights of professional stadiums. He honed his skills on the gridiron in high school, showcasing the arm talent that would later catch the attention of college scouts. However, it was at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama, that Hodges truly blossomed.

During his collegiate career, Hodges established himself as one of the most prolific passers in the Southern Conference. His statistics were nothing short of remarkable, amassing thousands of passing yards and setting numerous school and conference records. He consistently demonstrated the ability to read defenses, make accurate throws, and lead his team to victory. Hodges earned multiple Southern Conference Player of the Year awards, solidifying his reputation as a standout quarterback at the FCS level.

Despite his impressive college resume, NFL teams were hesitant. Scouting reports often cited concerns about his size, arm strength relative to NFL standards, and the level of competition he faced in the Southern Conference. These factors contributed to him going undrafted in the spring. What scouts often overlooked was the intangible qualities of toughness, leadership, and a competitive spirit that burned brightly within the young quarterback. He also had a unique hobby, the duck call, that he made a part of his identity. This identity, though memorable, may have been seen by some as unbecoming of a professional athlete.

The Black and Gold Opportunity

Following the draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers, known for their rich history and loyal fanbase, extended an invitation to Hodges to join their roster as an undrafted free agent. This was a chance, albeit a slim one, for him to prove himself at the highest level of professional football. Initially, expectations were minimal. The Steelers already had a future Hall of Fame quarterback in Ben Roethlisberger and a young backup in Mason Rudolph. Hodges’s primary goal was simply to make the practice squad, develop his skills, and absorb as much knowledge as possible from the veteran players and coaches.

Fate, however, had other plans. During the season, injuries struck the Steelers’ quarterback room with unexpected force. Ben Roethlisberger suffered a season-ending injury, thrusting Mason Rudolph into the starting role. Soon after, Rudolph sustained an injury himself, creating an unforeseen opportunity for Devlin Hodges.

Taking Flight: The Rise of “Duck” Hodges

With the Steelers’ quarterback situation in disarray, Hodges was thrust into the spotlight. His first appearance on the field ignited a spark within the fanbase. There was something endearing about this unheralded player, this underdog who had clawed his way into the NFL against all odds. His nickname, “Duck,” stemming from his passion for duck hunting and his impressive duck-calling abilities, added to his unique appeal.

As Hodges took the reins, the Steelers offense began to show signs of life. He led the team to victories, displaying a grit and determination that resonated with the blue-collar spirit of Pittsburgh. The “Duck Hodges” phenomenon quickly took hold. Fans flocked to games sporting duck-themed attire, and the sound of duck calls echoed throughout Heinz Field, creating an electric atmosphere.

Key victories and memorable plays fueled the fervor. Hodges’s ability to make timely throws and scramble for crucial yardage earned him the respect of his teammates and the adoration of the fans. He became a symbol of hope and resilience for a team that had faced significant adversity. The Steelers were experiencing a level of popularity they never expected, and it was mostly due to their seemingly average quarterback from Samford.

Challenges and Setbacks

The storybook run of Devlin Hodges was not without its challenges. As the season progressed, opposing defenses began to adjust to his playing style. Interceptions became more frequent, and the Steelers offense struggled to maintain its early momentum. The pressure of the starting quarterback role, combined with the scrutiny of the national media, began to take its toll.

The Steelers’ overall performance during that season also contributed to the challenges Hodges faced. The team struggled with injuries and inconsistencies on both sides of the ball, making it difficult for Hodges to consistently lead them to victory. Eventually, he lost the starting job, a harsh reminder of the competitive nature of the NFL.

Parting Ways with the Steel City

After his time as a starter concluded, Hodges’s tenure with the Steelers came to an end. He was released and subsequently spent time on the practice squads of other teams, including the Los Angeles Rams. While he continued to work hard and hone his skills, he never received another significant opportunity to start in the NFL. The reasons for this are varied, ranging from competition at the quarterback position to the ever-evolving landscape of NFL team needs.

Northward Bound: A Chapter in the CFL

Seeking a fresh start and a chance to reignite his football career, Devlin Hodges ventured north and signed with the Ottawa Redblacks of the Canadian Football League. The CFL offered a different style of play and a new environment for Hodges to showcase his talents. He hoped to prove himself as a starting caliber quarterback and potentially earn another shot in the NFL.

While he showed flashes of potential, his time in the CFL was unfortunately cut short due to a significant injury. This setback further complicated his path back to professional football. Although he left the CFL, he may not be done with football entirely.

Life Beyond the Gridiron

The story of Devlin Hodges is more than just a football narrative. It is a story about resilience, seizing opportunities, and finding purpose beyond the game. While he is no longer actively playing in the NFL or CFL, his impact on the Steelers fanbase remains palpable.

Details surrounding Devlin Hodges’s current career pursuits remain relatively sparse, but his passion for hunting remains very much alive. He is still Duck Hodges, a man who loves the outdoors.

A Lasting Impression: The Legacy of “Duck” Hodges

Devlin Hodges’s NFL career may have been brief, but his impact on the Pittsburgh Steelers and their fans was undeniable. He embodied the spirit of the underdog, the relentless pursuit of a dream against all odds. His story resonated with fans who appreciated his humility, his work ethic, and his genuine love for the game.

He proved that sometimes, the most unexpected heroes can emerge when given a chance. He gave a fanbase hope when its season seemed to be lost.

His legacy serves as a reminder that success in the NFL is not solely determined by pedigree or draft status. It is also about seizing opportunities, embracing challenges, and connecting with fans on a personal level. The duck calls that once echoed through Heinz Field may have faded, but the memory of Devlin Hodges, the undrafted quarterback who captured the hearts of a city, will endure. The story of Devlin Hodges may be over, but it will forever remain a reminder that perseverance and dedication can allow any individual to achieve their dreams.