KhaDarel Hodge has always been a grinder, working his way into the NFL in 2018 out of Alcorn St, via Prairie View A&M and Hinds Community College, not exactly your typical path to the top level. Throughout his career so far, Hodge has seen a typical run for a lower-level player in the league, with his transactions list featuring multiple releases and practice squad assignments with the Rams and Browns.
However, in the last few seasons, Hodge has found a place with the Atlanta Falcons, where, since 2022, he has played a role as a backup wideout.
KhaDarel Hodge Is On the Outside Looking In Ahead of Training Camp
The Falcons' front office put a small act of faith in Hodge this offseason, re-signing him to a two-year, $5.5 million contract, but in the NFL, not much is guaranteed. The Falcons are featuring a loaded receiver core with star Drake London, as well as Darnell Mooney and Ray-Ray McCloud. This makes the competition for a roster spot as a backup with the new staff could be harder to secure than in previous seasons.
In the 2024 season, Hodges’ production was down, grabbing 7 catches on 12 targets, compared to 14 catches in 23 targets in 2023, and 13 catches in 20 targets in 2022. Lower production and aging legs are not a good combination for receivers trying to make a roster: factors working against Hodges and his potential future with the Falcons.
With the hire of Raheem Morris and the overhaul of the coaching staff, it is unknown if Hodges will factor into the new plans. Morris has many decisions to make entering this year's camp, especially when it comes to roster cuts, and the wide-out group remains a crucial factor in the development of second-year quarterback Michael Penix.
Atlanta is expected to have approximately twelve receivers next week when camp breaks, with about half of that group having a chance to make the final roster in September. For the 30-year-old wide out, entering his eighth season in the NFL, it will take the grit and determination Hodges showed to make it to the NFL in the first place to secure himself not only a spot on the team, but impactful reps as well.