Atlanta Falcons wide receiver and former HBCU star KhaDarel Hodge says he has been praying for an opportunity, and he got one on Thursday night.
The former Prairie View A&M star came into Thursday night’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and caught a 45 yard touchdown pass that would prove to be the game-winner as the Atlanta Falcons beat their NFC South rival 36-30 in overtime.
“I don’t even know what to say right now. It’s so surreal. God is real. That’s all I could say. I prayed for this — I prayed for this every week. Just give me the opp (opportunity) and take advantage of the opp(ortunity). And that’s what I did. I really don’t know what to say. I’m still soaking it in right now.”
Hodge, who plays primarily on special teams, was called in the game after an injury to Drake London.
“I knew I had to step in. Five (London’s number) went down. Hell of a player. I knew I had to step in for my brother — for my team,” Hodge said. “I gotta do what I need to do, take advantage of my opportunity. This game is a game of opportunity and I made sure I took advantage of it and Kirk (Cousins) trusted me, the team trusted me. God was on my side, I just did what I had to do.”
Hodge caught 48 passes as a senior at Prairie View A&M before beginning his pro career, which is currently one of the longest on the offensive side of the ball for any HBCU player.
Hodge’s NFL career began when he was signed by the Los Angeles Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2018. He later had stints with the Cleveland Browns and Detroit Lions, where his special teams contributions and limited but impactful offensive appearances stood out. For instance, during his time with the Detroit Lions, he had a standout game in 2021 where he posted career-high numbers, catching five passes for 76 yards in a game against Seattle, showing his potential as a reliable target.
KhaDarel Hodge signed with the Atlanta Falcons in 2022, continuing to contribute primarily as a special teams player, but also providing valuable depth at the wide receiver position. Over the years, his ability to make key plays when called upon, such as critical catches and tackles, has kept him relevant in a highly competitive league.
His two catches on Thursday night were his first of the season, but he may be getting the ball coming his way more often after Thursday night’s performance.