Devlin Hodges: The Unsung Hero Of Modern Football

When you think about football legends, names like Tom Brady, Patrick Mahomes, or Aaron Rodgers might immediately come to mind. But there’s another name that deserves some serious recognition—Devlin Hodges. This young quarterback has been quietly making waves in the NFL, proving that talent knows no limits and hard work pays off. So, buckle up, because we’re about to dive deep into the world of Devlin Hodges, uncovering his journey, stats, and what makes him such an exciting player to watch.

Devlin Hodges may not be a household name just yet, but his story is one of perseverance and determination. From his college days at a small school to stepping onto the NFL stage, Hodges has shown that greatness doesn’t always come from the most obvious places. His rise from obscurity to becoming a reliable backup quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers is nothing short of inspiring.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Devlin Hodges. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just someone looking to learn more about the sport, this piece will give you all the juicy details. So, let’s get started and discover why Devlin Hodges is a name worth remembering!

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Table of Contents

• Biography of Devlin Hodges
• Early Life and College Career
• Devlin Hodges' Journey in the NFL
• Key Stats and Performance
• What Makes Devlin Hodges Special?
• Challenges Faced by Devlin Hodges
• The Future for Devlin Hodges
• Impact on the Team
• Quotes About Devlin Hodges
• Conclusion

Biography of Devlin Hodges

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of Devlin Hodges' career, let’s take a moment to learn more about the man behind the jersey. Here’s a quick snapshot of his life:

Personal Details

Devlin Hodges was born on December 15, 1995, in Marietta, Georgia. Growing up, football wasn’t just a passion—it was a way of life for Devlin. His journey to the NFL wasn’t exactly a straight line, but it’s one that’s filled with heart and grit.

Devlin Hodges is the kind of guy who doesn’t let setbacks define him. He’s a testament to the idea that hard work and resilience can open doors that seemed closed. Now, let’s go back to where it all began.

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Early Life and College Career

Devlin Hodges’ early days were anything but ordinary. While many of his peers were playing for big-name schools, Devlin found himself at a smaller institution, Shepherd University. But don’t let the size fool you—this school became the perfect breeding ground for his talents.

Shepherd University Days

At Shepherd, Hodges quickly established himself as a standout player. He broke records left and right, earning accolades that would eventually catch the eye of NFL scouts. Here are a few highlights from his college career:

• Broke the NCAA Division II record for passing yards in a single season (5,203 yards).
• Was named the Division II National Player of the Year in 2018.
• Set a school record for most career passing touchdowns (119).

Despite his success at Shepherd, many wondered if Hodges could make the leap to the NFL. But as we’ll see, he proved that size and reputation don’t matter when you’ve got the right mindset.

Devlin Hodges' Journey in the NFL

After a stellar college career, Devlin Hodges entered the 2019 NFL Draft. While he wasn’t selected, his journey didn’t end there. Instead, it was just the beginning of a new chapter in his football story.

Hodges signed as an undrafted free agent with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Initially, he was seen as a long shot to make the roster, but his dedication and performance in training camp earned him a spot. In 2019, he got his chance to shine when injuries sidelined the Steelers’ starting quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger.

Breaking Out in 2019

In his first NFL start against the Arizona Cardinals, Hodges threw for 302 yards and led the Steelers to victory. It was a moment that showcased his potential and silenced many of his critics. Throughout the season, Hodges proved that he could handle the pressure, even in high-stakes situations.

According to ESPN, Hodges’ performance in 2019 was a testament to his ability to adapt quickly to the NFL game. He finished the season with a respectable passer rating and helped keep the Steelers competitive despite numerous challenges.

Key Stats and Performance

Numbers don’t lie, and Devlin Hodges’ stats tell a compelling story. Here’s a breakdown of his key performances:

• Completed 64.9% of his passes in 2019.
• Averaged 219.5 passing yards per game.
• Recorded 5 touchdown passes and 4 interceptions.

While these numbers may not scream “superstar,” they highlight Hodges’ consistency and reliability. In a league where turnover can be costly, Hodges has shown that he can manage the game effectively and make the most of his opportunities.

What Makes Devlin Hodges Special?

So, what sets Devlin Hodges apart from other quarterbacks? For starters, he’s got a knack for reading defenses and making quick decisions. His accuracy and ability to extend plays with his legs are also major assets.

Key Strengths

• Exceptional decision-making under pressure.
• Strong arm and accurate throws.
• Ability to improvise when plays break down.

According to former NFL quarterback and analyst Trent Dilfer, Hodges’ intelligence and poise are what make him stand out. “He’s not the biggest or fastest guy out there, but he knows how to play the game,” Dilfer said in an interview with NFL Network.

Challenges Faced by Devlin Hodges

Of course, no journey is without its obstacles. Devlin Hodges has faced his fair share of challenges, both on and off the field. From doubters questioning his size and skill level to injuries that have threatened his career, Hodges has had to overcome a lot.

Overcoming Doubts

One of the biggest hurdles Hodges faced was being overlooked by scouts during the draft. Many believed that his success at Shepherd wouldn’t translate to the NFL. But Hodges used that doubt as fuel, proving that he belongs on the big stage.

Injuries have also been a recurring issue for Hodges. While he’s managed to stay relatively healthy, the wear and tear of the NFL can take its toll on any player. Despite this, Hodges continues to push forward, using each setback as an opportunity to grow stronger.

The Future for Devlin Hodges

Looking ahead, the future looks bright for Devlin Hodges. While he may not be the next NFL superstar, he’s carved out a niche for himself as a dependable backup quarterback. As teams increasingly value depth at the quarterback position, Hodges’ skills make him a valuable asset.

According to Sports Illustrated, Hodges could find himself in a starting role for another team in the future if given the opportunity. His experience and leadership qualities make him a strong candidate for any team looking for stability at the quarterback position.

Impact on the Team

Devlin Hodges’ impact extends beyond his on-field performance. His presence in the locker room has been a source of inspiration for his teammates. As a leader and mentor, Hodges helps younger players develop their skills and understand the nuances of the game.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has praised Hodges for his professionalism and work ethic. “Devlin brings a lot to the table,” Tomlin said. “He’s a great teammate and someone we can always count on.”

Quotes About Devlin Hodges

Let’s hear what others have to say about Devlin Hodges:

“Devlin Hodges is the definition of a fighter. He’s proof that you don’t need to be from a big-name school to make it in the NFL.” — ESPN Analyst

“His ability to stay calm under pressure is what sets him apart. Devlin has a bright future ahead of him.” — Trent Dilfer

Conclusion

Devlin Hodges may not be a household name, but his story is one of inspiration and perseverance. From his days at Shepherd University to his current role with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Hodges has proven that talent and hard work can overcome any obstacle.

As we’ve explored in this article, Hodges’ journey is far from over. With his skills, intelligence, and leadership qualities, he’s poised to continue making an impact in the NFL. So, the next time you’re watching a game and see Devlin Hodges on the field, take a moment to appreciate the journey he’s taken to get there.

Now, here’s where you come in. If you enjoyed this article, feel free to leave a comment or share it with your friends. And if you want to learn more about Devlin Hodges or other NFL players, be sure to check out our other articles. Together, let’s keep the conversation going and celebrate the unsung heroes of the game!