On Thursday, the Ottawa Redblacks announced the signing of former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Devlin “Duck” Hodges to a three-year contract.
The 25-year-old from Kimberly, AL, played college at Samford University. During his collegiate career at Samford, Hodges played 45 games with 1,310 for 14,584 yards, 111 touchdowns, and 41 interceptions. Those numbers broke the previous record held by Alcorn State and Tennessee Titans quarterback Steve McNair. He was named the Southern Conference Player of the Year three times.
Devlin Hodges took to Twitter to thank the Redblacks for the opportunity. “Usually, ducks migrate south around this time! But I guess there’s always a few exceptions! Thankful for the opportunity! Thank you, Lord!”
Devlin Hodges went undrafted in the 2019 Draft and was signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers. After both Ben Roethlisberger and Mason Rudolph went out with injuries, Hodges made his NFL debut on October 6th, 2019, against the Baltimore Ravens.
Devlin Hodges played eight games for the Steelers in 2019. He completed 100 of 160 passes (62.5%) for 1,063 yards, five touchdowns, and eight interceptions. The Steelers cut him in 2020. He later signed with the Los Angeles Rams and was cut too. He most recently tried out for the New York Giants.
The Redblacks quarterbacks have struggled this season. Matt Nichols played four games, completing 56/86 (65.1%) for 476-yards and three interceptions. His backup, Dominique Davis, played two games, completing 53/84 (63.1%) for 624-yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions.
Adding Hodges to the lineup could give the Redblacks a boost it desperately needs. The Redblacks are currently in last place in the CFL East Division with a 1-4 record. In their last game, the Redblacks were dismantled by the BC Lions 45-13.
The Redblacks are on a bye week this week, and their next game will be next Wednesday, September 22nd, at 7:30 pm on ESPN+.
