Who Is Duck Hodges? A Deeper Dive into the “Duck Dynasty” Quarterback
Duck Hodges is Michael “Duck” Hodges, a former NFL quarterback best known for his unexpected rise to prominence with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2019. He is particularly remembered for his unconventional journey from undrafted free agent to a fan-favorite signal caller.
The Making of a Duck: Early Life and College Career
Michael “Duck” Hodges wasn’t destined for NFL stardom according to conventional wisdom. He hailed from Denbigh, Virginia, and his path to professional football was far from typical. He wasn’t a blue-chip recruit, and he didn’t attend a Power Five college.
- High School: Hodges played quarterback at Denbigh High School, showing promise but lacking the exposure needed to attract major college offers.
- College: He committed to Samford University, a Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) school in Birmingham, Alabama.
At Samford, Hodges became a legend. He established himself as one of the most prolific passers in FCS history, winning the Walter Payton Award in 2018, the FCS equivalent of the Heisman Trophy. His accomplishments included:
- Breaking FCS records: Hodges shattered numerous passing records during his collegiate career, solidifying his place in Samford football history.
- Leading Samford to success: He guided the Bulldogs to multiple winning seasons, earning him widespread recognition within the FCS ranks.
Despite his remarkable college career, Hodges went undrafted in the 2019 NFL Draft. His size (around 6’1″), arm strength, and the level of competition he faced in the FCS were all factors that contributed to him not being selected.
The Unlikely Steelers Story: From Practice Squad to Starter
Hodges’ NFL journey began as an undrafted free agent signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2019. Initially, he was viewed as a long shot to even make the roster.
- Practice Squad: He was assigned to the Steelers’ practice squad, serving as an extra arm for the team’s quarterbacks.
- Opportunity Knocks: An injury to Ben Roethlisberger and a subpar performance by Mason Rudolph thrust Hodges into the spotlight.
His opportunity arrived unexpectedly. When both Roethlisberger and Rudolph went down with injuries, Hodges was thrust into the starting role. He quickly captured the hearts of Steelers fans with his unflappable demeanor, grit, and surprisingly effective play. He famously celebrated touchdowns with a “duck call,” a nod to his duck hunting hobby.
- Duck Mania: Hodges led the Steelers to a 3-3 record as a starter, becoming a local phenomenon. Fans embraced the “Duck Hodges” persona, wearing duck-themed apparel and making duck calls at games.
- Brief Departure: His time as a starter was short-lived. He was eventually benched in favor of Rudolph, and the Steelers missed the playoffs.
Hodges continued to be on the Steelers’ roster but saw limited playing time. He was eventually released and subsequently signed with other teams, never again achieving the same level of success he experienced in Pittsburgh.
Beyond the Field: Duck Hunting and the Everyday Man
What made Duck Hodges so relatable to fans was his down-to-earth personality. He wasn’t a polished, pre-packaged athlete. He was a regular guy who happened to be playing quarterback in the NFL.
- Duck Hunting Passion: Hodges’ love of duck hunting was a key part of his identity. He often spoke about his hunting trips and even incorporated the duck call into his on-field celebrations.
- Blue-Collar Appeal: He resonated with the blue-collar fanbase of Pittsburgh, who appreciated his work ethic and humble nature.
Hodges’ story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to seize opportunities when they arise. Although his NFL career was brief, he left an indelible mark on the city of Pittsburgh and reminded everyone that anything is possible.
Comparing Duck Hodges to Other Undrafted QBs Who Had Success
| Quarterback | Draft Status | Key Accomplishments | NFL Career Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kurt Warner | Undrafted | Super Bowl XXXIV MVP, 2x NFL MVP | 12 Years |
| Tony Romo | Undrafted | 4x Pro Bowler, Dallas Cowboys all-time passing leader | 14 Years |
| Duck Hodges | Undrafted | Led Steelers to 3-3 record in 2019 after injuries | 3 Years |
| Jake Delhomme | Undrafted | Led Carolina Panthers to Super Bowl XXXVIII | 11 Years |
This table highlights that while Hodges’ NFL career was shorter, the possibility of undrafted quarterbacks achieving a degree of success certainly exists.
The Legacy of Duck Hodges
While Hodges’ NFL career didn’t reach the heights of some other undrafted success stories, he provided a spark for the Steelers and a feel-good story that resonated with fans. His legacy is one of opportunity, perseverance, and a reminder that anyone can achieve their dreams with hard work and a little bit of luck.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are Duck Hodges’ career NFL statistics?
Hodges played in 8 NFL games, starting in 6. He threw for 1,251 yards, 5 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions, with a passer rating of 67.3. His rushing statistics are minimal. These numbers reflect his brief but impactful time in the league.
What is Duck Hodges doing now?
After his NFL career, Hodges transitioned to the Canadian Football League (CFL), playing for the Ottawa Redblacks. After his time in the CFL he has returned to his roots and is rumored to be involved in duck hunting, outdoor activities, and spending time with his family.
Did Duck Hodges win any awards in the NFL?
No, Hodges did not win any major awards during his NFL career. However, he did earn the Walter Payton Award during his time at Samford University, which is the highest individual honor in the FCS.
How did Duck Hodges get the nickname “Duck”?
The nickname “Duck” stemmed from his passion for duck hunting. It was a natural fit for his persona and became synonymous with his time in Pittsburgh. It showcased his genuine personality.
What college did Duck Hodges attend?
Hodges attended Samford University, an FCS school in Birmingham, Alabama, where he had a record-breaking career and won the Walter Payton Award.
Was Duck Hodges drafted into the NFL?
No, Duck Hodges was not drafted. He signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2019.
What was Duck Hodges’ biggest game in the NFL?
One of his most memorable games was against the Los Angeles Chargers in 2019, where he led the Steelers to a 24-17 victory. His performance in that game solidified his status as a fan favorite.
Why did Duck Hodges get benched by the Steelers?
Hodges was benched due to a combination of factors, including inconsistent play and the return of Mason Rudolph from injury. Coaching decisions ultimately led to his benching.
How did Duck Hodges’ playing style differ from Ben Roethlisberger’s?
Hodges was known for his mobility and improvisational skills, while Roethlisberger was more of a traditional pocket passer. Hodges relied on his ability to extend plays and make throws on the run.
What impact did Duck Hodges have on the city of Pittsburgh?
Hodges became a cultural phenomenon in Pittsburgh. His “Duck Mania” created a sense of excitement and unity among Steelers fans. He was considered an everyman and resonated well with the fan base.
What are some of the challenges of being an undrafted NFL quarterback?
Undrafted quarterbacks face an uphill battle to make NFL rosters. They have to prove themselves constantly, often competing against players who were highly touted prospects. They need to work harder to earn their opportunities.
What is Duck Hodges’ net worth?
While an exact figure is difficult to determine, sources estimate Duck Hodges’ net worth to be somewhere between $1 and $5 million. This is primarily from his football career and any endorsement deals he may have had.