Devlin Hodges: The Surprising Journey To NFL Starting Quarterback

Who is Devlin Hodges?

Devlin Hodges is an American football quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League (NFL).

He played college football at Samford and was signed by the Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2019.

Hodges made his NFL debut in 2019 and has since become a valuable member of the Steelers' offense.

Name	Value
Full name:	Devlin Hodges
Birth date:	March 22, 1996
Birth place:	Arab, Alabama
Position:	Quarterback
Team:	Pittsburgh Steelers

Hodges is known for his accuracy, mobility, and leadership.

He is a rising star in the NFL and is expected to have a long and successful career.

Devlin Hodges

Devlin Hodges is an American football quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Samford and was signed by the Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2019.

• Quarterback
• Pittsburgh Steelers
• Undrafted free agent
• Samford University
• Accuracy
• Mobility
• Leadership
• Rising star

These key aspects highlight Devlin Hodges' journey as a quarterback in the NFL. Despite being an undrafted free agent, he has proven his worth through his accuracy, mobility, and leadership skills. As a rising star, he is expected to have a long and successful career in the NFL.

1. Quarterback

A quarterback is the leader of the offense in American football. They are responsible for calling the plays, handing off the ball to the running backs, and passing the ball to the receivers. Quarterbacks need to have a strong arm, good decision-making skills, and the ability to stay calm under pressure.

• Leadership
  Quarterbacks are the leaders of their teams. They need to be able to motivate their teammates and keep them focused on the goal.
• Decision-making
  Quarterbacks need to be able to make quick decisions under pressure. They need to be able to read the defense and make the right call on every play.
• Arm strength
  Quarterbacks need to have a strong arm to be able to make accurate throws. They need to be able to throw the ball long distances and with precision.
• Accuracy
  Quarterbacks need to be accurate with their throws. They need to be able to put the ball in the right spot for their receivers to catch it.

Devlin Hodges is a quarterback who has all of these qualities. He is a natural leader, has great decision-making skills, and has a strong arm. He is also very accurate with his throws. Hodges is a rising star in the NFL and is expected to have a long and successful career.

2. Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers are a professional American football team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. They are members of the North Division of the American Football Conference (AFC) in the National Football League (NFL). The Steelers are one of the most successful teams in NFL history, having won six Super Bowls, the most of any team in the AFC.

Devlin Hodges is a quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was signed by the team as an undrafted free agent in 2019. Hodges has quickly become a valuable member of the Steelers' offense, starting several games in the 2019 season. He is known for his accuracy, mobility, and leadership.

The connection between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Devlin Hodges is significant. The Steelers are a storied franchise with a rich history, and Hodges is a young player with a bright future. He has the potential to be a franchise quarterback for the Steelers for many years to come.

3. Undrafted free agent

An undrafted free agent (UDFA) is a player who is not selected in the NFL draft but is signed by a team as a free agent after the draft. UDFAs typically have a lower chance of making an NFL roster than drafted players, but there are many examples of UDFAs who have gone on to have successful NFL careers.

• Opportunity
  Being an undrafted free agent can give a player an opportunity to prove themselves at the NFL level. UDFAs often have to work harder and show more dedication than drafted players in order to make a roster. However, if they are able to perform well in training camp and preseason games, they can earn a spot on the team.
• Value
  UDFAs can provide value to NFL teams. They are often willing to sign for less money than drafted players, and they can provide depth and competition to the roster. Some UDFAs even go on to become stars in the NFL.
• Success stories
  There are many examples of UDFAs who have gone on to have successful NFL careers. Some notable examples include Antonio Brown, Kurt Warner, and Wes Welker. These players all went undrafted, but they were able to prove themselves at the NFL level and become some of the best players in the league.

Devlin Hodges is an example of an undrafted free agent who has had success in the NFL. He was signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers after the 2019 NFL Draft, and he quickly became a valuable member of the team. He started several games in the 2019 season, and he led the Steelers to a playoff victory. Hodges is a talented quarterback with a bright future, and he is proof that UDFAs can have success in the NFL.

4. Samford University

Samford University is a private Christian university located in Homewood, Alabama. It was founded in 1841 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist Convention. Samford University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including a strong football program.

Devlin Hodges played college football at Samford University. He was a four-year starter for the Bulldogs and set several school records, including most career passing yards and touchdowns. Hodges was also named the Southern Conference Offensive Player of the Year in 2018.

Hodges' success at Samford University helped him get noticed by the Pittsburgh Steelers, who signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2019. Hodges quickly became a valuable member of the Steelers' offense, starting several games in the 2019 season. He led the Steelers to a playoff victory in the 2019 season.

The connection between Samford University and Devlin Hodges is significant. Samford University gave Hodges the opportunity to develop his skills and become a successful quarterback. Hodges' success at Samford University helped him get noticed by the Pittsburgh Steelers, and he is now a valuable member of their offense.

5. Accuracy

Accuracy is a crucial aspect of Devlin Hodges' game as a quarterback. He consistently demonstrates exceptional precision in his throws, enabling him to connect with receivers effectively and advance the ball down the field.

• Completion Percentage
  

  Hodges boasts a high completion percentage, indicating his ability to deliver the ball to his intended targets regularly. This accuracy is vital in maintaining possession, sustaining drives, and scoring points.

• Precision Passing
  

  Hodges' throws are not only accurate in terms of completion but also precise in their placement. He can hit receivers in stride, allowing them to gain yards after the catch and create scoring opportunities.

• Timing and Anticipation
  

  Hodges has a keen sense of timing and anticipation, allowing him to release the ball at the right moment for his receivers to make the catch. This timing is crucial in avoiding interceptions and creating explosive plays.

• Touch and Ball Placement
  

  Hodges possesses excellent touch and ball placement skills. He can vary the velocity and trajectory of his throws to fit the situation, whether it's a deep pass, a short pass over the middle, or a touch pass to avoid defenders.

Overall, Devlin Hodges' accuracy is a key element of his success as a quarterback. His ability to consistently deliver accurate passes enables the Steelers' offense to move the ball efficiently, score points, and win games.

6. Mobility

Devlin Hodges is known for his mobility as a quarterback. He is able to move well both inside and outside the pocket, which gives him the ability to extend plays and make throws on the run. This mobility is a valuable asset to the Steelers' offense, as it allows them to be more unpredictable and difficult to defend.

There are several ways in which Hodges' mobility benefits the Steelers' offense. First, it allows him to extend plays when the pass rush gets to him. By being able to move out of the pocket and avoid sacks, Hodges can give his receivers more time to get open downfield. This can lead to big plays and scoring opportunities.

Second, Hodges' mobility allows him to make plays on the run. He is able to roll out of the pocket and throw on the move, which can be very effective against defenses that are blitzing or playing man-to-man coverage. Hodges' ability to make these types of plays can help the Steelers move the ball down the field and score points.

Overall, Devlin Hodges' mobility is a key part of his game as a quarterback. It allows him to extend plays, make throws on the run, and keep the Steelers' offense moving. He is a valuable asset to the team, and his mobility is one of the reasons why the Steelers are a contender in the AFC.

7. Leadership

Leadership is a crucial aspect of Devlin Hodges' game as a quarterback. He is a natural leader who is able to motivate and inspire his teammates. He is also a good communicator who is able to get his message across clearly and effectively.

Hodges' leadership was evident in his performance during the 2019 season. He was thrust into the starting role after Ben Roethlisberger was injured in Week 2. Hodges led the Steelers to a 5-6 record in his starts, including a victory over the Baltimore Ravens. He also led the Steelers to a playoff victory over the Oakland Raiders.

Hodges' leadership is not limited to the field. He is also a leader in the community. He is involved in several charities, including the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. He is also a role model for young people, showing them that anything is possible if you work hard and never give up.

Hodges' leadership is a key part of his success as a quarterback. He is able to motivate and inspire his teammates, and he is able to get his message across clearly and effectively. He is also a role model for young people, showing them that anything is possible if you work hard and never give up.

8. Rising star

Within the realm of American football, the term "rising star" is often used to describe a player who has demonstrated exceptional talent and potential early in their career. This designation is particularly relevant in the context of Devlin Hodges, a quarterback who has made a significant impact on the Pittsburgh Steelers since joining the team as an undrafted free agent in 2019.

• Exceptional Performance
  

  As a rising star, Hodges has consistently showcased his abilities on the field. Despite limited playing time, he has displayed impressive accuracy, mobility, and leadership qualities. His performances have contributed to the Steelers' success and have earned him recognition as a promising talent.

• Rapid Progression
  

  Hodges' rapid progression is another defining characteristic of his status as a rising star. In just a short period, he has ascended from an undrafted prospect to a starting quarterback in the NFL. This rapid rise speaks to his dedication, work ethic, and natural talent.

• High Expectations
  

  The designation of "rising star" carries with it high expectations for future performance. In Hodges' case, these expectations are justified given his impressive start to his career. Fans and analysts alike anticipate that he will continue to develop and become a cornerstone of the Steelers' offense.

• Potential for Greatness
  

  Ultimately, the label of "rising star" is bestowed upon players who possess the potential for greatness. Hodges has demonstrated the necessary skills, intangibles, and drive to suggest that he could become one of the elite quarterbacks in the NFL. His future holds immense possibilities, and his status as a rising star is a testament to his potential.

In conclusion, Devlin Hodges embodies the characteristics of a rising star in the NFL. His exceptional performance, rapid progression, high expectations, and potential for greatness all contribute to this designation. As he continues to develop and refine his skills, Hodges has the potential to become a cornerstone of the Steelers' franchise and one of the most successful quarterbacks in the league.

Frequently Asked Questions About Devlin Hodges

This section addresses common questions and misconceptions surrounding Devlin Hodges, providing informative answers to enhance understanding.

Question 1: What are Devlin Hodges' strengths as a quarterback?

Answer: Hodges possesses several strengths as a quarterback, including his accuracy, mobility, and leadership abilities. He demonstrates a high completion percentage, can extend plays with his mobility, and effectively motivates and communicates with his teammates.

Question 2: How did Devlin Hodges become a starting quarterback for the Steelers?

Answer: Hodges joined the Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2019. Due to an injury to Ben Roethlisberger, Hodges was thrust into the starting role and impressed with his performances. He led the Steelers to a 5-6 record in his starts, including a playoff victory.

Question 3: What is the significance of Hodges being an undrafted free agent?

Answer: As an undrafted free agent, Hodges' journey to becoming a starting quarterback is notable. It showcases his resilience, work ethic, and ability to seize opportunities. His success story serves as an inspiration to other aspiring players.

Question 4: What are the expectations for Devlin Hodges' future?

Answer: Hodges has established himself as a rising star with high expectations for his future. He is anticipated to continue developing his skills and potentially become a franchise quarterback for the Steelers. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see his continued growth and contributions to the team.

Question 5: What are some notable achievements in Devlin Hodges' career?

Answer: In his short career so far, Hodges has achieved several notable feats. He led the Steelers to a playoff victory in 2019 and was named the AFC Offensive Player of the Week in Week 14 of the 2019 season. Additionally, he holds several Samford University passing records.

In summary, Devlin Hodges' journey as a rising star quarterback is marked by his strengths in accuracy, mobility, and leadership. His success as an undrafted free agent is a testament to his perseverance and talent. With high expectations for his future, Hodges aims to continue his development and become a cornerstone of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Moving on to the next section of the article...

Conclusion

Devlin Hodges is a rising star in the NFL. His accuracy, mobility, and leadership skills have made him a valuable asset to the Pittsburgh Steelers. He has shown that he has the potential to be a franchise quarterback for many years to come.

Hodges' journey to the NFL is an inspiring one. He went from being an undrafted free agent to starting for one of the most successful teams in the league. He has shown that anything is possible if you work hard and never give up on your dreams.

Hodges is a role model for young people, both on and off the field. He is a hard worker who has achieved great things through perseverance and dedication. He is also a kind and compassionate person who is always willing to help others.Hodges is a rising star in the NFL, but he is also a rising star in the community. He is a role model for young people, and he is making a positive impact on the world. He is a true inspiration, and his story is one that everyone can learn from.