The Ring, The Duck, And The Date: 5 Shocking Details About Lainey Wilson's 2025 Engagement To Devlin Hodges
Country music fans worldwide were sent into a frenzy on February 12, 2025, when Lainey Wilson, the reigning queen of 'Bell Bottom Country,' officially announced her engagement to longtime boyfriend, Devlin "Duck" Hodges. The news confirmed months of speculation, solidifying one of Nashville's most beloved and surprisingly private relationships. This power couple—a chart-topping, multi-award-winning artist and a former NFL quarterback turned real estate professional—have captured the public's imagination with their down-to-earth charm and deep Louisiana roots, proving that true love can thrive even under the bright lights of superstardom. The engagement marks a major personal milestone in a year already packed with professional triumphs for the "Watermelon Moonshine" singer, with a wedding now officially on the horizon for 2026.
The announcement, made via a heartfelt Instagram post, featured the couple beaming with a dazzling, custom-designed ring that has since become a major talking point in the celebrity jewelry world. As of December 22, 2025, the pair are deep into wedding planning, having already made their first official red carpet appearances as an engaged couple at major events like the 2025 ACM Awards and the 2025 CMA Awards. This article dives deep into the biographies of both Lainey Wilson and her fiancé, the intimate details of the proposal, and everything we know about their upcoming nuptials.
Lainey Wilson: A Comprehensive Biography and Career Profile
Lainey Denay Wilson has become one of the most recognizable and successful figures in modern country music, known for her unique "Bell Bottom Country" style, which blends traditional country with a modern rock and funk edge. Her journey from a small town in Louisiana to a global stage is a testament to her tenacity and talent.
- Full Name: Lainey Denay Wilson
- Date of Birth: May 19, 1992
- Age (as of late 2025): 33
- Birthplace: Baskin, Louisiana, USA (a small town with a population under 300)
- Parents: Brian Wilson (father) and Michelle Wilson (mother)
- Siblings: Has a sister.
- Career Start: Moved to Nashville, Tennessee, in 2011, living in a camper trailer for years while pursuing her music career.
- Breakthrough Success: Released her first major-label album, Sayin' What I'm Thinkin', in 2021, featuring the hit "Things a Man Oughta Know."
- Key Albums: Sayin' What I'm Thinkin' (2021), Bell Bottom Country (2022).
- Major Hits: "Heart Like a Truck," "Watermelon Moonshine," "Never Say Never" (with Cole Swindell).
- Acting Role: Played the role of Abby on the hit television series Yellowstone.
- Major Awards (Pre-Engagement): Multiple ACM Awards (including Entertainer of the Year), multiple CMA Awards. Her monumental rise continued with a second Entertainer of the Year win at the 60th Annual ACM Awards.
The Fiancé: Who is Devlin "Duck" Hodges?
Lainey Wilson's fiancé, Devlin "Duck" Hodges, is a familiar name to sports fans, though he has now transitioned into a new professional field. His down-home personality and love for the outdoors perfectly complement Wilson's Southern charm, making them a very compatible couple.
Devlin Hodges was born on April 14, 1996, in Kimberly, Alabama. He earned the nickname "Duck" due to his lifelong passion for duck hunting, a hobby he shares with Lainey Wilson.
From NFL Quarterback to Real Estate Professional
Hodges had a notable career in professional football, primarily as a quarterback. After a successful college career, he went on to play for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the National Football League (NFL).
He also spent time playing in the Canadian Football League (CFL). In 2022, Hodges announced his retirement from professional football at a young age to pursue opportunities outside of the sport.
Following his retirement, Devlin "Duck" Hodges successfully transitioned into the world of real estate. He is currently a licensed real estate agent, a career path that keeps him grounded and active in his community while supporting Lainey's demanding touring schedule.
The Proposal, The Ring, and The Future Wedding Plans
The engagement news in February 2025 was a joyous moment, but the details surrounding the proposal and the stunning ring have added a layer of intrigue and romance to their story. The couple, who began dating around 2021, kept their relationship largely private until their public debut in 2023, allowing their bond to strengthen away from the media spotlight.
The Intimate Proposal Story
Lainey Wilson revealed that the proposal was an intimate, heartfelt affair, perfectly reflecting their private nature. The country star admitted that she "always knew Hodges was the one," and in a surprisingly candid detail, she confessed to having sent her fiancé engagement ring choices four years prior, long before the question was popped.
This pre-planning suggests a deep, long-term commitment that was simply waiting for the right moment. The couple's journey from a quiet, four-year courtship to a public engagement has resonated with fans who appreciate their authenticity and genuine connection.
The Dazzling Cluster Engagement Ring
The ring presented to Lainey Wilson by Devlin Hodges is a showstopper, estimated by some sources to be valued around $250,000.
It is a custom-designed cluster ring, a statement piece that has quickly become a trend in celebrity engagements.
The cluster design features a unique arrangement of multiple diamonds, creating a dazzling, voluminous look that is both timeless and modern. The choice of a cluster ring perfectly suits Wilson's unique, bold style, blending traditional elements with a contemporary flair, much like her "Bell Bottom Country" music.
Anticipated 2026 Wedding Date and Details
Following the engagement announcement, attention immediately turned to wedding plans. Lainey Wilson has been open about her desire for a "very simple" wedding, suggesting a celebration that prioritizes close family and friends over a massive, extravagant affair.
While specific dates and locations remain private, sources close to the couple have indicated that the wedding is confirmed for 2026.
Given their Louisiana and Alabama roots, a Southern-themed wedding with a focus on good food, music, and a relaxed atmosphere is highly anticipated. The wedding is expected to be a beautiful culmination of their four-year relationship, officially uniting the country music icon and the former NFL star. Fans and media alike will be eagerly awaiting the first pictures of "Mrs. Duck" and her husband walking down the aisle, marking the start of their new chapter together.
The Impact of Lainey Wilson's Engagement on Her Career
Lainey Wilson's engagement to Devlin Hodges comes at a pinnacle moment in her career. Far from slowing her down, the news has only amplified her visibility and appeal. Her authenticity in sharing this personal milestone has endeared her further to her massive fanbase.
The stability and support of her fiancé, a former professional athlete, are seen as a major asset as she navigates the demanding world of touring, recording, and award shows. Their joint appearances on the red carpet at the 2025 ACM and CMA Awards showcased a unified front, demonstrating that she has a strong partner to share her success with.
This new chapter is expected to inspire more music, potentially influencing her upcoming album with themes of love, commitment, and future dreams. The blending of her personal joy with her professional success ensures that Lainey Wilson remains one of the most compelling and relevant artists in country music today.
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