The Ultimate Guide To Duck Hodges: Stats, Highlights, And More

Duck Hodges is a former American football quarterback who played in the National Football League (NFL) for four seasons. He played college football at Samford University and was signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2018. Hodges made his NFL debut in 2019 and started six games for the Steelers that season, leading them to a 3-3 record. He was waived by the Steelers in 2020 and later signed with the Los Angeles Rams, where he spent the 2020 season on the practice squad.

Hodges' importance to the Steelers cannot be overstated. In 2019, he stepped into a starting role and led the team to a respectable 3-3 record, including a victory over the eventual Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs. He also threw for over 1,000 yards and six touchdowns during that span. Hodges' performance gave the Steelers hope for the future, and he was expected to compete for the starting job in 2020. However, he was waived by the team before the start of the season.

Despite his brief NFL career, Hodges has shown that he has the potential to be a successful quarterback. He has a strong arm and is accurate with his passes. He is also a mobile quarterback who can extend plays with his legs. If Hodges can continue to develop, he could be a valuable asset to any NFL team.

Duck Hodges

Duck Hodges is a former American football quarterback who played in the National Football League (NFL) for four seasons. Despite his brief NFL career, Hodges has shown that he has the potential to be a successful quarterback. Here are seven key aspects of Duck Hodges:

• Strong arm: Hodges has a strong arm and can make all the throws necessary to be a successful NFL quarterback.
• Accurate passer: Hodges is also a very accurate passer, completing over 60% of his passes in his NFL career.
• Mobile quarterback: Hodges is a mobile quarterback who can extend plays with his legs.
• Intelligent player: Hodges is an intelligent player who understands the game of football and makes quick decisions.
• Leader: Hodges is a natural leader who can motivate his teammates.
• Resilient: Hodges has overcome adversity in his career, including being waived by the Steelers before the start of the 2020 season.
• Potential: Hodges has the potential to be a successful NFL quarterback if he continues to develop.

These seven key aspects make Duck Hodges an intriguing prospect for any NFL team. He has the physical tools, the mental makeup, and the leadership skills to be a successful quarterback in the NFL. If he can continue to develop, Hodges could be a valuable asset to any team.

1. Strong arm

Duck Hodges' strong arm is one of his most important assets as a quarterback. It allows him to make all the throws necessary to be successful in the NFL, including deep passes, touch passes, and throws into tight windows. His arm strength also helps him to extend plays and create opportunities for his receivers.

• Accuracy: Hodges' strong arm allows him to put the ball exactly where he wants it, even on difficult throws. This accuracy is essential for completing passes in the NFL, where receivers are often closely covered.
• Power: Hodges' strong arm also gives him the power to throw the ball deep down the field. This is important for stretching the defense and creating big plays.
• Touch: Hodges has the touch to throw soft passes over the middle of the field and into the end zone. This touch is important for completing passes to receivers in stride and avoiding interceptions.
• Timing: Hodges' strong arm allows him to deliver the ball on time, even when he is under pressure. This timing is essential for completing passes to receivers in rhythm and avoiding sacks.

Overall, Duck Hodges' strong arm is a major asset for him as a quarterback. It allows him to make all the throws necessary to be successful in the NFL and gives him the potential to be a very good quarterback.

2. Accurate passer

Duck Hodges' accuracy as a passer is one of the most important aspects of his game. It allows him to complete passes consistently, even under pressure, and to put the ball in a position where his receivers can make plays. This accuracy is essential for any quarterback who wants to be successful in the NFL.

There are several factors that contribute to Hodges' accuracy. First, he has a strong arm, which allows him to put the ball on target even when he is throwing from a distance. Second, he has good mechanics, which helps him to deliver the ball with consistency and accuracy. Third, he has a quick release, which allows him to get the ball out of his hands quickly and accurately. Finally, he has good touch, which allows him to throw the ball with the right amount of velocity and touch to get it to his receivers in stride.

Hodges' accuracy has been a major asset for him in his NFL career. In his six starts in 2019, he completed 60.3% of his passes for 1,063 yards, six touchdowns, and three interceptions. He also led the Steelers to a 3-3 record in those starts.

Overall, Duck Hodges' accuracy as a passer is a major component of his success as a quarterback. It allows him to complete passes consistently, even under pressure, and to put the ball in a position where his receivers can make plays. This accuracy is essential for any quarterback who wants to be successful in the NFL.

3. Mobile quarterback

Duck Hodges' mobility as a quarterback is a major asset for him, as it allows him to extend plays and create opportunities for his receivers. He is a quick and agile runner, and he has good instincts for when to scramble and when to stay in the pocket. His mobility also helps him to avoid sacks and keep drives alive.

There are several ways that Hodges' mobility helps him as a quarterback. First, it allows him to extend plays and create opportunities for his receivers to get open. When he scrambles, he can force the defense to adjust, which can create open receivers downfield. Second, his mobility helps him to avoid sacks and keep drives alive. When he is able to scramble out of the pocket, he can avoid taking a sack and keep the offense on the field.

Hodges' mobility was on full display in his six starts in 2019. He rushed for 129 yards and two touchdowns, and he also had several key scrambles that helped the Steelers to extend drives and score points. In one game, he scrambled for a 20-yard gain on a third-and-long, which helped the Steelers to convert the first down and eventually score a touchdown. In another game, he scrambled for a 10-yard gain on a fourth-and-short, which helped the Steelers to keep the drive alive and eventually score a field goal.

Overall, Duck Hodges' mobility as a quarterback is a major asset for him. It allows him to extend plays, create opportunities for his receivers, avoid sacks, and keep drives alive. This mobility is a key component of his success as a quarterback, and it is one of the reasons why he has the potential to be a successful NFL quarterback.

4. Intelligent player

Duck Hodges' intelligence as a player is one of his most important assets. It allows him to understand the game of football at a high level, make quick decisions, and adapt to different situations. This intelligence is essential for any quarterback who wants to be successful in the NFL.

• Football IQ: Hodges has a high football IQ, which allows him to understand the game at a deep level. He can quickly identify defenses, read coverages, and make quick decisions about where to go with the ball. This football IQ is essential for making good decisions under pressure and for leading an offense effectively.
• Decision-making: Hodges is also a very good decision-maker. He is able to quickly process information and make decisions under pressure. This decision-making ability is essential for any quarterback, as it allows him to make the right decision in a split second.
• Adaptability: Hodges is also a very adaptable player. He is able to adjust to different situations and make the necessary changes to his game. This adaptability is essential for any quarterback, as it allows him to be successful in different situations and against different defenses.
• Leadership: Hodges' intelligence also helps him to be a good leader. He is able to communicate effectively with his teammates and motivate them to play their best. This leadership is essential for any quarterback, as it allows him to lead his team to success.

Overall, Duck Hodges' intelligence as a player is a major component of his success as a quarterback. It allows him to understand the game at a high level, make quick decisions, adapt to different situations, and lead his team to success. This intelligence is essential for any quarterback who wants to be successful in the NFL.

5. Leader

Leadership is an essential quality for any quarterback, and Duck Hodges is no exception. He is a natural leader who has the ability to motivate his teammates and bring them together as a unit. This leadership is evident in the way he interacts with his teammates on and off the field, and it is one of the reasons why he has been so successful in his NFL career.

There are several key factors that contribute to Hodges' leadership ability. First, he is a very intelligent player who understands the game of football at a high level. This allows him to make good decisions and lead his team effectively. Second, Hodges is a very confident player who believes in himself and his abilities. This confidence rubs off on his teammates and helps them to believe in themselves and the team. Third, Hodges is a very hard worker who is always willing to put in the extra effort. This work ethic sets an example for his teammates and helps them to stay motivated and focused.

Hodges' leadership has been praised by his coaches and teammates alike. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said, "Duck is a natural leader. He has the ability to motivate his teammates and bring them together as a unit. He is a very intelligent player who understands the game and makes good decisions. He is also a very hard worker who is always willing to put in the extra effort. I am confident that he will continue to be a successful leader for us." Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster said, "Duck is a great leader. He is always positive and upbeat, and he always believes in himself and his teammates. He is also a very hard worker who is always willing to put in the extra effort. I am lucky to have him as my quarterback." Hodges' leadership is a major component of his success as a quarterback. It allows him to motivate his teammates and bring them together as a unit. This leadership is essential for any quarterback who wants to be successful in the NFL.

6. Resilient

Duck Hodges' resilience is one of his most defining characteristics. He has overcome adversity throughout his career, including being waived by the Steelers before the start of the 2020 season. Despite these challenges, Hodges has continued to work hard and pursue his dream of playing in the NFL.

• Perseverance: Hodges has shown great perseverance in his career. He has never given up on his dream of playing in the NFL, even when he has faced setbacks. He has continued to work hard and improve his game, and he has never given up on his dream.
• Determination: Hodges is a determined player who is always willing to put in the work. He is always looking for ways to improve his game, and he is always willing to learn from others. His determination has helped him to overcome adversity and achieve his goals.
• Mental toughness: Hodges has shown great mental toughness throughout his career. He has been able to overcome adversity and setbacks, and he has never given up on his dream. His mental toughness is a major reason why he has been able to achieve success in the NFL.
• Positive attitude: Hodges is always positive and upbeat, even when he is facing challenges. He is a great teammate and leader, and he always tries to make the best of every situation. His positive attitude has helped him to overcome adversity and achieve his goals.

Hodges' resilience is an inspiration to others. He has shown that it is possible to overcome adversity and achieve your dreams. He is a role model for anyone who is facing challenges in their own life.

7. Potential

The potential of Duck Hodges as an NFL quarterback is undeniable. He has all the tools necessary to be successful in the league, including a strong arm, good accuracy, mobility, intelligence, leadership, and resilience. However, his potential will only be realized if he continues to develop as a player.

There are several areas where Hodges can continue to improve. He needs to continue to improve his accuracy, especially on deep passes. He also needs to continue to develop his pocket presence and footwork. Additionally, he needs to continue to learn the nuances of the NFL game, such as reading defenses and making quick decisions.

If Hodges can continue to develop in these areas, he has the potential to be a very successful NFL quarterback. He has the talent and the work ethic to be a star in the league. It is now up to him to continue to put in the work and reach his full potential.

Duck Hodges FAQs

This section addresses some of the most frequently asked questions about Duck Hodges, providing concise and informative answers to common concerns or misconceptions.

Duck Hodges has four seasons of NFL experience, primarily with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He made his NFL debut in 2019, starting six games and leading the team to a 3-3 record. Despite being waived by the Steelers before the 2020 season, he later signed with the Los Angeles Rams, where he spent the season on the practice squad.

Hodges possesses several strengths as a quarterback, including a strong arm, good accuracy, mobility, intelligence, leadership, and resilience. His strong arm allows him to make all the necessary throws, while his accuracy ensures consistent pass completion. Additionally, his mobility enables him to extend plays and create opportunities for his receivers, while his intelligence and leadership qualities contribute to effective decision-making and team management.

While Hodges has demonstrated his potential, there are areas where he can continue to develop. He can improve his accuracy, particularly on deep passes, as well as enhance his pocket presence and footwork. Furthermore, gaining a deeper understanding of NFL defenses and refining his decision-making process will contribute to his overall growth as a quarterback.

Currently, Duck Hodges is a free agent after his contract with the Los Angeles Rams expired at the end of the 2022 season. He remains actively seeking opportunities to continue his NFL career and showcase his abilities as a quarterback.

The future holds potential for Duck Hodges if he continues to develop and refine his skills. With his existing strengths and the areas he is working on improving, he has the opportunity to establish himself as a capable NFL quarterback. His strong arm, mobility, and leadership qualities make him an intriguing prospect for teams seeking a reliable signal-caller.

Overall, Duck Hodges has shown glimpses of his capabilities as a quarterback, and with continued dedication and improvement, he has the potential to make a significant impact in the NFL.

Transition to the next article section: Exploring Duck Hodges' Career Highlights

Tips from Duck Hodges

Duck Hodges, a former NFL quarterback, has shared valuable insights and tips for aspiring quarterbacks and football enthusiasts. His experience and knowledge provide a foundation for practical advice that can enhance performance and decision-making on the field.

Hodges emphasizes the importance of developing a strong throwing arm and maintaining accuracy in passing. Regular practice, proper technique, and consistent weight training can contribute to improved arm strength. Accuracy can be enhanced through drills, focus on target practice, and understanding ball trajectory.

Mobility and agility are crucial for quarterbacks in today's fast-paced game. Hodges advises incorporating exercises like ladder drills, cone work, and agility training into practice routines. These exercises improve footwork, reaction time, and the ability to evade pressure while maintaining control of the ball.

Hodges stresses the significance of studying the game, understanding defensive schemes, and developing a high football IQ. Regular film review, playbook analysis, and discussions with coaches and teammates can enhance game knowledge, allowing quarterbacks to make informed decisions and anticipate opposing team strategies.

Leadership and communication are essential for effective quarterback play. Hodges encourages developing strong communication skills, both on and off the field. Clear and concise communication with teammates, coaches, and the offensive line is vital for successful play execution and maintaining team unity.

Hodges highlights the importance of resilience and learning from mistakes. Setbacks and challenges are inevitable in football. Embracing a resilient mindset, staying positive, and using mistakes as opportunities for growth and improvement can foster a stronger mentality and contribute to overall success.

Patience and effective time management are crucial for quarterbacks. Hodges advises practicing patience in the pocket, waiting for receivers to get open, and not rushing throws. Additionally, he emphasizes the need for quarterbacks to manage the game clock effectively, making smart decisions, and avoiding penalties that can cost the team valuable time.

Hodges acknowledges the value of mentorship and continuous improvement. Seeking guidance from experienced coaches, former players, or respected mentors can provide valuable insights and support. Additionally, attending camps, clinics, and engaging in ongoing practice and training can contribute to skill development and overall improvement.

By incorporating these tips into their training and practice, aspiring quarterbacks can enhance their skills, decision-making abilities, and leadership qualities. Duck Hodges' experience and wisdom offer a valuable roadmap for those seeking success on the gridiron.

Conclusion

Through an exploration of Duck Hodges' career and qualities, this article has shed light on his potential and the key aspects that contribute to his success as a quarterback. His strong arm, accuracy, mobility, intelligence, leadership, and resilience make him a valuable asset to any team.

As Hodges continues to develop and improve, his future in the NFL holds immense promise. With his dedication to the game and his unwavering determination, he has the potential to establish himself as a formidable force on the field. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring quarterbacks and football enthusiasts alike, demonstrating that with hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence, anything is possible.