Who Is Lainey Wilson’s Husband? The Inside Story of Her Relationship With Devlin ‘Duck’ Hodges

A spotlight on how mutual passion and privacy shaped the couple’s journey to engagement.

Written by Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach
Last Updated on

Who Is Lainey Wilson’s Husband? Details About Her Relationship With Devlin ‘Duck’ Hodges

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Lainey Wilson, acclaimed country music singer-songwriter and rising star, has been making headlines not only for her chart-topping hits, but also for her deeply private and romantic love story with Devlin ‘Duck’ Hodges. While Wilson and Hodges are not yet officially married, their engagement in February 2025 set the country music scene abuzz, and fans are eager for details about the couple’s journey from secretive beginnings to a public celebration of their bond.

Lainey Wilson and Devlin Hodges: A Love Story in Nashville

Lainey Wilson first met Devlin Hodges, a former NFL quarterback known for his plays with the Pittsburgh Steelers, during the early months of 2021. The pair connected over shared Southern roots and similar values, quickly sparking a romance that they managed to keep largely out of the public eye for two years.

  • Lainey Wilson and Devlin Hodges began dating in 2021.
  • The couple made their first public appearance together at the 2023 ACM Awards.
  • They announced their engagement on February 12, 2025.

Devlin ‘Duck’ Hodges: Who Is Lainey Wilson’s Husband-To-Be?

Devlin Hodges, affectionately known as ‘Duck’ because of his prowess in duck calling competitions, is a former NFL quarterback whose career with the Pittsburgh Steelers earned him a cult following among football fans. After stepping away from pro football, Hodges focused on entrepreneurship, sports commentary, and supporting Wilson’s surging career.

Full NameDevlin Patrick Hodges
Known AsDuck Hodges
ProfessionFormer NFL Quarterback
Notable TeamPittsburgh Steelers
Other InterestsDuck calling, entrepreneurship

Supporting Each Other’s Dreams

Throughout their relationship, Hodges has played a supportive role in Wilson’s musical ambitions—cheering her on from backstage and attending major events. Wilson, in turn, credits Hodges for providing her with stability and encouragement during some of the most stressful and high-profile moments of her career. Their shared love for sports and music has helped them build a partnership grounded in mutual respect and admiration.

The Proposal: Engagement News and Details

Lainey Wilson and Devlin Hodges announced their engagement in February 2025, sharing a set of intimate photos taken on the steps of a historic Southern home. Wilson’s Instagram post, captioned “4x4xU forever” in reference to a song on her most recent album Whirlwind, revealed the couple’s happiness and commitment.

  • The private proposal took place ahead of Valentine’s Day on February 12, 2025.
  • Wilson posted a series of photographs with her engagement ring online.
  • The ring features classic country glamour with a bold center stone surrounded by a delicate band.

Engagement Ring Details

The engagement ring worn by Wilson reflects her style—rustic, glamorous, and timeless. Sources say it has a large, round diamond set on a platinum band, a nod to Wilson’s affinity for vintage chic aesthetics often seen in her wardrobe and stage persona.

How Did Lainey Wilson and Devlin Hodges Meet?

Their first meeting took place in early 2021 at a Nashville event attended by both musicians and athletes. Wilson described it as an immediate connection, centered around their love for the outdoors, similar family values, and authentic Southern hospitality. Despite the sparks flying early on, the couple decided to keep their budding romance out of the spotlight to protect their privacy and relationship.

  • Met in Nashville at a music and sports event in early 2021
  • Began dating shortly thereafter
  • Both share mutual respect for country living, family, and Southern culture

Keeping Their Relationship Private

For almost two years, the couple managed to shield their romance from the media and fans alike. Wilson later revealed in interviews that their secrecy allowed them to truly understand each other without external pressures or expectations. They were seen together at private family gatherings and only stepped into the public eye as a couple in 2023.

Relationship Timeline: Milestones and Major Moments

YearEvent
2021Met and began dating in Nashville
2022Relationship remains private; Wilson deals with family health crisis
May 2023Public debut at the ACM Awards
Feb 2025Engagement announced
July 2025Rumors about wedding planning circulate

Public Appearances and Support

Since going public, Wilson and Hodges have made notable appearances together at major country music and sports events. Their debut at the ACM Awards in May 2023 captured fans’ attention, blending celebrity romance with genuine affection.

  • 2023: First red carpet appearance at the Academy of Country Music Awards.
  • 2024: Hodges spotted supporting Wilson at concerts and Nashville business ventures.
  • 2025: Engagement drawing widespread media coverage.

Careers Collide: Lainey & Devlin’s Supportive Partnership

Despite coming from different backgrounds—music and professional football—Wilson and Hodges have found common ground that strengthens their relationship. Hodges’ retirement from football enabled him to spend more time with Wilson as she toured and recorded music. Wilson often credits Hodges with helping her cope with the pressures of fame, especially following personal family challenges and sudden popularity.

  • Hodges acts as Wilson’s personal cheerleader during award seasons.
  • Wilson praises Hodges for his understanding of the spotlight and media attention.
  • Both are passionate about sports, nature, and country music.

Shared Hobbies and Values

Their relationship is centered around a mutual appreciation for:

  • Country living
  • Outdoor adventures and hunting
  • Family ties and Southern traditions
  • Supporting charitable causes in their home states

Future Plans: Wedding, Family, and Nashville Life

While Wilson and Hodges have not publicly announced a wedding date as of July 2025, rumors are swirling that Nashville is a likely location for the nuptials, with many country stars expected on the guest list. The couple is said to be planning a celebration that embodies their Southern roots, full of music, family, and down-home hospitality.

  • Wedding reportedly slated for late 2025 or early 2026.
  • Expected guest list includes Nashville celebrities and sports figures.
  • Reception likely to feature live country music performances.

Building a Life in Nashville

Wilson and Hodges reside in Nashville, balancing personal privacy with professional commitments. In 2024, Wilson expanded her entrepreneurial reach by opening “Bell Bottoms Up”—a three-story bar, Cajun restaurant, and music venue in downtown Nashville, with Hodges offering support as both business partner and cheerleader.

Public Reaction: The Fans and Media Spotlight

Fans have been overwhelmingly supportive of Wilson’s relationship. Social media buzzes with excitement any time the couple makes a public appearance or shares personal insights. Though Wilson became a viral sensation on TikTok for unrelated reasons in 2022, her romance with Hodges has added a new layer to her public persona—demonstrating that she is more than just an entertainer, but is also grounded in authentic relationships.

  • Wilson’s viral TikTok fame in 2022 increased public interest in her personal life.
  • Her relationship with Hodges is often described as “real” and “endearing” by fans.
  • The couple is active in engaging fans through social media and community events.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is Lainey Wilson married?

A: As of July 2025, Lainey Wilson is not yet married but engaged to Devlin ‘Duck’ Hodges.

Q: Who is Devlin ‘Duck’ Hodges?

A: Devlin Hodges is a former NFL quarterback best known for playing with the Pittsburgh Steelers, and he is the fiancé of Lainey Wilson.

Q: How did Lainey Wilson and Devlin Hodges meet?

A: They met in early 2021 at a Nashville event where athletes and musicians mingled, quickly hitting it off and starting a relationship.

Q: When did Lainey Wilson and Devlin Hodges get engaged?

A: They announced their engagement in February 2025, with a private proposal shared via Instagram photos.

Q: What are Lainey Wilson and Devlin Hodges’ plans for the future?

A: The couple reportedly plans to wed in late 2025 or early 2026, and they continue to build their careers in Nashville while supporting each other.

Conclusion: A Country Romance for the Ages

Lainey Wilson and Devlin Hodges’ romance is not just a celebrity spectacle but a heartfelt story of two people from different worlds coming together for a life rooted in family, music, sports, and mutual support. As wedding rumors swirl and their public lives intertwine, fans are left eagerly anticipating the next chapter—both in Wilson’s chart-topping career and her life with her soon-to-be husband, Devlin ‘Duck’ Hodges.

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Sneha Tete
Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

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