Lainey Wilson’s Boyfriend: 5 Essential Facts to Know

Lainey Wilson delighted her fans with the exciting announcement of her engagement to former NFL quarterback Devlin “Duck” Hodges, a relationship that blossomed in 2021! “4x4xU forever,” she joyfully captioned her Instagram engagement post. The talented country music artist made her first public appearance with Duck on the red carpet in May 2023. During a June 2023 episode of The Bobby Bones Show, Lainey humorously shared that they had been together for a significant period, stating, “He’s been around for a while. I just decided to make him wait for two and a half years.” This playful remark showcases her affection and commitment to their relationship.

“But I’ll tell you, he is truly a wonderful partner,” she expressed with enthusiasm. “He supports me unconditionally and would never interfere with my career aspirations. He’s always encouraging, saying, ‘Go get it, girl.’ I made him wait for a while, and now, after a little over two years, we’re here.” This statement reveals the strong foundation of respect and support that characterizes their relationship, further endearing them to fans who admire their bond.

With their engagement now public knowledge, it’s time to explore more about the remarkable individual who has captured the heart of the acclaimed singer of “Things a Man Oughta Know.”

Discover Devlin Hodges’ Football Journey and Career Highlights

Devlin Hodges, born in Alabama on April 12, 1996, quickly emerged as a standout athlete during his high school years. He continued to shine at his home state college, Samford University, where he thrived as a quarterback, earning the prestigious title of Southern Conference Offensive Player of the Year three times. In 2019, he was signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers, marking the beginning of his professional football career. Following his time with the Steelers, he had a brief stint with the LA Rams and then transitioned to the Canadian Football League, playing with the Ottawa Redblacks. On April 22, 2022, Devlin announced his retirement from professional football, closing a significant chapter in his life.

Devlin’s experience as a professional athlete has provided him with a unique perspective, enabling him to support Lainey in her endeavors. As he understands the challenges of pursuing one’s dreams, he can relate to her journey in the competitive world of country music.

“He knows what it’s like to chase a dream because he’s done it himself,” Lainey revealed during her interview on The Bobby Bones Show. “He was part of the NFL, went through the rigorous tryouts for the Steelers, and had a remarkable run with them. After that, he ventured out to the LA Rams, which was another significant experience for him.” This shared understanding of ambition and perseverance strengthens their connection.

The Story Behind Devlin’s Unique Nickname ‘Duck’

When Lainey disclosed her two-year romance with Duck, she was prompted to explain the origins of his distinctive nickname, sparking curiosity among fans.

“First of all, if you read something online, it probably ain’t accurate,” she humorously clarified on The Bobby Bones Show. “His college football coach once told him, ‘You’re one of the best quarterbacks I’ve ever had the pleasure to coach. You remind me of my favorite quarterback from years ago, and we called him Duck.’ Thus, the nickname stuck, and the team started calling him Duck. Interestingly, Devlin also has a passion for duck hunting, which adds a personal touch to the nickname.”

Unveiling Devlin’s Passion for Hunting and the Outdoors

A quick look at Duck’s Instagram page reveals his genuine love for the sport of duck hunting. His posts frequently showcase him in camouflage gear, ready for the hunt, along with the rewards of his successful outings. Additionally, he is also an enthusiastic wild turkey hunter, often seen beaming with joy while proudly displaying his catches. This passion for hunting reflects his adventurous spirit and connection to nature.

How Duck Made His Move on Lainey Through Social Media

While the exact details of how their romance began remain somewhat mysterious, Duck has openly declared his admiration for Lainey on social media. The country music star, who is also venturing into acting with a role on Yellowstone, has caught his eye. In April, he tweeted, “Lainey Wilson damnnn she’s so gooooood,” expressing his appreciation for her talent.

He didn’t stop there; Duck also responded to a tweet from iHeartCountry that featured images of various country artists alongside the question, “Whose DMs are you sliding into?” He wasted no time, responding directly with, “Lainey Wilson … literally.” This playful banter on social media adds a charming layer to their relationship, showcasing Duck’s boldness and affection.

Exploring Duck Hodges’ Podcasting Journey and Insights

Although Duck has stepped away from his football career, he remains passionate about discussing the sport on his own podcast, aptly titled The Duck Hodges Podcast. This platform allows him to share insights and stories from his time in the league, along with his passion for hunting and outdoor adventures.

The podcast description reads, “Waterfowl podcast with a mix of other hunting and sports and maybe even a little music.” It’s designed for listeners who enjoy the informal yet engaging conversations that often happen around a campfire or duck hunting camp. The first season of this exciting podcast launched in April 2022, and it continues to attract listeners who share similar interests.