Country music sensation Lainey Wilson, at 32 years old, recently announced her engagement to former NFL quarterback Devlin “Duck” Hodges, 28, after a blissful four-year courtship. The Grammy Award-winning artist took to Instagram on Wednesday night, sharing a heartwarming post that read, “4x4xU forever,” capturing the essence of her deep connection with Hodges.
In a picturesque setting on a tan brick patio enveloped by roses, candles, and cherished photographs from their time together, Wilson joyfully accepted Hodges’ proposal. Clad in a striking long red coat, a classic cowboy hat, and her signature bell-bottoms, the country star radiated happiness as she flaunted her dazzling diamond ring, presented by her former Pittsburgh Steelers beau in a cowboy hat box.
The couple’s love story began in 2021 when they crossed paths in Nashville through mutual friends, setting the stage for a romance that bloomed behind the scenes before their radiant red-carpet debut at the ACM Awards in May 2023. Despite keeping their relationship under wraps in the music mecca of Nashville, industry insiders caught glimpses of Hodges supporting Wilson at her concerts, painting a picture of unwavering support and admiration.
For Wilson, known for her hit songs like “Wildflowers and Wild Horses” and “Watermelon Moonshine,” finding love with Hodges sparked a creative awakening, propelling her to explore the realm of romantic ballads she had never ventured into before. In a candid interview with American Songwriter, the nine-time CMA Award winner from Baskin, La., expressed how her newfound love inspired a surge of artistic inspiration, infusing her music with a newfound depth and passion.
As the couple navigated the intricacies of their relationship amidst demanding schedules—Wilson’s whirlwind world tour on the horizon and Hodges transitioning from a professional football career to real estate—their bond only grew stronger. Hodges, who played as a quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers and later the LA Rams, seamlessly transitioned into a new chapter as a licensed real estate agent with Tennessee agency Myers Cobb Realtors, relishing the opportunity to share in Wilson’s music journey.
Looking ahead, Wilson’s eagerly anticipated “Whirlwind” world tour is set to commence in Zurich on Mar. 4, promising a musical escapade that will culminate in Orlando on Nov. 8. The singer’s infectious energy and magnetic stage presence are sure to captivate audiences worldwide, with Hodges cheering her on every step of the way as they embark on this new chapter together.
Amidst the excitement of their engagement and the promise of new beginnings, Wilson and Hodges embody a love story that transcends boundaries, uniting two worlds—music and sports—into a harmonious blend of passion, dedication, and unwavering support. As the couple embarks on this next phase of their lives, fans and well-wishers alike eagerly anticipate the magic that awaits, celebrating the enduring power of love and the joy of finding a soulmate to share life’s adventures.
