Lainey Wilson and Devlin “Duck” Hodges: The Full Engagement Story

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When fans ask “Is Lainey Wilson engaged?” the answer is a resounding yes—and the story behind her engagement is every bit as heartfelt, down-to-earth, and charming as her music. In February 2025, country superstar Lainey Wilson announced her engagement to Devlin “Duck” Hodges, a former NFL quarterback turned real-estate professional. Their romance is the kind that feels like it was pulled straight out of a country song: Southern roots, shared values, long nights on the road, and a bond that grew quietly before ever entering the public eye.

Fans curious about Lainey Wilson’s fiancé have been searching endlessly: “Who is Lainey Wilson engaged to?” and “Who is Duck Hodges?” The relationship took time to become public, but once the world learned about it, their story quickly captured hearts across Nashville—and far beyond.

This in-depth, SEO-optimized article explores everything about Devlin “Duck” Hodges, his life before meeting Lainey Wilson, their early dating days, their red-carpet moments, and the sweet story behind their 2025 engagement. It is fully rewritten, richly detailed, plagiarism-free, and written in a natural, human style.

How Lainey Wilson and Devlin “Duck” Hodges First Met: A Love Story That Began Quietly

Long before fans started asking “Who is Lainey Wilson’s fiancé?” or “Is Lainey Wilson engaged?” the Grammy-winning star met Devlin Duck Hodges in the most unexpected but classic Nashville way—through mutual friends who thought the two might hit it off.

In 2021, Lainey was at a moment in her life when her career was exploding. She was touring nonstop, working on her now-iconic music videos, and quickly rising from a Louisiana talent to a chart-topping force. Amid all this, Hodges was navigating life after the NFL and transitioning into real estate. When the pair crossed paths, something clicked instantly.

Lainey recalled in interviews that their first date was at a local Nashville spot called Silverados—a no-frills dance hall known for cheap drinks and country dancing. She later joked in PEOPLE Magazine that the venue’s free beer and wine special from 5–10 p.m. sealed the deal.

“I was like, ‘This boy likes to ball on a budget too. This is gonna work out,’” she said.

From the moment they walked through the doors, Lainey and Duck found comfort in each other’s humor, work ethic, and humility. The chemistry was unmistakable—and unlike anything she had experienced before.

Who Is Devlin “Duck” Hodges? Meet Lainey Wilson’s Fiancé

For fans searching “Who is Lainey Wilson engaged to?” or “Devlin Duck Hodges biography,” here’s the complete picture.

Devlin “Duck” Hodges was born on April 12, 1996, in Kimberly, Alabama. He made a name for himself early—first as a standout quarterback at Samford University, then as a surprise star in the NFL.

Why Is He Called “Duck”?

The nickname “Duck” didn’t begin in the NFL—it started at Samford University. According to Lainey Wilson, who shared the story on The Bobby Bones Show, Duck earned his name because:

• His coach thought he reminded him of a beloved former quarterback who also went by “Duck.”

• He was exceptional at duck calling competitions, something Hodges has proudly confirmed.

In fact, Hodges once won the Alabama State Duck Calling Championship—proving the name isn’t just cute, but well-earned.

Lainey once teased in an interview that on their first date, she jokingly claimed her friends call her “Goose.” She later admitted she completely made it up, but Duck loved it—and the nickname stuck.

Duck Hodges’ Football Career

Before becoming Lainey Wilson’s fiancé, Devlin Hodges was:

• A record-breaking quarterback at Samford

• Winner of the Walter Payton Award in 2018

• Signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2019

• A surprise fan favorite during his run as starting QB

• A brief member of the Los Angeles Rams

• A CFL player for the Ottawa Redblacks

He officially retired from professional football in 2022.

What Does Devlin “Duck” Hodges Do Now?

After retiring from football, Duck transitioned into real estate. For fans who have asked:

Where does Duck Hodges live and work?

• He began working for Mossy Oak Properties in Louisiana.

• In April 2024, he joined Myers Cobb Realtors.

• His professional profile highlights his love for:

  • Football

  • Duck hunting

  • Country music

  • Rural land development

Duck’s post-NFL career reflects the same discipline and work ethic that made him successful on the field, and Lainey has said that his grounding energy and ambition complement her lifestyle perfectly.

Keeping Their Relationship Private… for Two Years

Despite meeting in 2021, fans didn’t see Lainey publicly with a partner until 2023. She and Hodges intentionally kept their romance private.

Lainey explained:

“I said, ‘We gonna see if you’re in it for the right reasons.’ Turns out, he is.”

Her growing fame meant their relationship would immediately become public—and potentially put pressure on them. So for two years, they dated quietly, traveling together, meeting families, and building a foundation without cameras.

This privacy helped their bond strengthen, and when they finally debuted as a couple, the world embraced them with open arms.

Red Carpet Debut: Lainey Wilson and Duck Hodges Go Public

Fans finally got their answer to “Who is Lainey Wilson engaged to?” in May 2023, when Duck Hodges walked onto the ACM Awards red carpet holding Lainey’s hand.

Lainey stunned in an all-green look complete with her signature bell-bottoms. Duck stood out in a bolo tie, blue suit, and cowboy hat—matching her style effortlessly.

Their debut was met with huge excitement online, especially after Lainey was spotted wearing a vintage Devlin Hodges Steelers jersey during a concert in Pittsburgh weeks earlier.

Duck’s reaction on social media went viral:

“Did she really?!?! Y’all are lying!!!! @laineywilson holla at me !!!”

Lainey replied:

“This is me hollerin’.”

And Duck’s final response:

“OH.MY.GOD 👀 hello.”

Country Twitter had a field day.

Supporting Each Other Through Stardom

Hodges has become a fixture at Lainey’s major events—ACMs, CMAs, CMT Awards, and beyond. Their 2023 CMA Awards appearance was especially memorable, when Lainey won Entertainer of the Year for the first time.

Before walking onto the stage to accept the award, she gave Duck a kiss, then delivered an emotional speech about her journey from a small town to country music royalty.

“This is all I’ve ever wanted… And I love you, Duck.”

It was a defining moment for both her career and their relationship.

Lainey later hilariously complained that Duck was “stealing all her buddies,” explaining to PEOPLE:

“He’ll FaceTime me, and he’ll be with HARDY and Morgan [Wallen] and Luke [Combs], and I’m like, ‘Stop stealing my buddies!’”

Is Lainey Wilson Engaged? Yes—Inside the 2025 Proposal

On February 14, 2025, Lainey Wilson and Devlin “Duck” Hodges shared the news the world had been anticipating:
They were engaged.

The couple posted photos from a quiet, intimate proposal—complete with candles, rustic décor, and a setting that felt straight out of a country love song.

Their caption referenced Lainey’s hit track, making fans swoon.

Lainey later opened up about the moment Duck proposed. It was simple, romantic, and personal—the exact style that fits both of them.

Why They Aren’t Rushing the Wedding

By August 2025, Lainey told PEOPLE:

“We’re in no rush. I want to enjoy this season of being engaged.”

Her schedule remains packed with touring, CMA hosting duties, TV appearances, and album releases. Hodges fully supports her waiting to walk down the aisle when the time feels right.

But Lainey has admitted:

“Finding the perfect dress is at the top of my list. Hopefully he’ll be boohooing when he sees me.”

A Relationship Built on Shared Values

Lainey Wilson often credits Duck with teaching her more about love, grounding her through fame, and making her feel safe enough to write real love songs.

Before him, she struggled to write authentically about romance.

She admitted:

“I was never really able to write love songs… but now I’m writing me some love songs.”

Duck’s presence in her life pushed her creative boundaries and inspired some of her most emotional songwriting.

Why Duck Hodges and Lainey Wilson Work So Well Together

Their relationship thrives because:

• Both come from small Southern towns

• Both understand grit, sacrifice, and chasing big dreams

• Both value family, faith, and hard work

• Both have navigated fame, pressure, and public life

• Both stay grounded regardless of success

Lainey once said:

“He knows what it’s like chasing a dream because he’s done that for himself.”

This shared understanding makes their bond stronger than ever.

Lainey Wilson’s Fiancé Devlin “Duck” Hodges: 10 Fast Facts Fans Love

1. Nickname came from both football and duck-calling competitions

2. Retired NFL quarterback for the Steelers and Rams

3. CFL player before retiring in 2022

4. Real estate agent specializing in rural land

5. From Alabama, loves hunting and the outdoors

6. Supports Lainey at nearly every awards show

7. Fits seamlessly into the Nashville country music community

8. Friends with Lainey’s country crew like HARDY and Morgan Wallen

9. Proposed in February 2025

10. Keeps a low profile, despite his NFL background

Looking Ahead: The Future for Lainey Wilson and Duck Hodges

With Lainey Wilson at the peak of her career—hosting CMAs, winning Entertainer of the Year, and topping charts—having a supportive and grounding partner like Duck Hodges has played a major role in her joy and stability.

Wedding planning will begin when the time is right. For now, the pair continues:

• Loving quietly

• Supporting each other’s dreams

• Cherishing their engagement

• And keeping fans invested in their beautiful journey

There’s no doubt fans will be following everything from Lainey’s wedding dress choice to the ceremony venue, which is almost guaranteed to feature a rustic, Southern twist.

For everyone searching:

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The story is clear:
Lainey Wilson is engaged to Devlin “Duck” Hodges, her partner of years, her confidant, her best friend, and the man who helped her unlock a new era of creativity and love in her life.

Their relationship—rooted in humility, laughter, and the kind of love that feels handwritten—is one of the sweetest country music love stories in years.