Devin Strader, a 28-year-old freight company owner, has consistently stood out this season of The Bachelorette. Devin goes above and beyond to create a genuine connection with Jenn Tran and has deployed a winning strategy to become a front-runner this season. Self-described as loud in the premiere episode, Devin has had his sights on Jenn since Joey Graziadei’s rejection on the last season of The Bachelor. Devin, who knew before meeting Jenn that her type was someone with a big personality, is the perfect person to walk into her life.
Early on, Devin made his intentions clear when he said he didn’t want to be one to get lost in the group. Unfortunately, season after season, contestants cannot overcome this challenge. For example, Austin Ott recently said goodbye to Jenn because he didn’t have a strong enough bond with the dark-haired beauty. Other men, like Devin, who made the effort to impress Jenn, even in a group setting, made Austin feel too far behind. If he had adopted Devin’s attitude earlier, Austin may not have quit Jenn’s season.
Devin Will Do Whatever It Takes To Get More Time With Jenn
Even If It Bothers The Other Contestants
Devin knows standing out to Jenn is more important than the feelings of the other men vying for her heart. On the first group date, he put action behind his words and pulled Jenn away from the rest of the pack to be alone with her. Although the other men felt disrespected, Devin’s actions showed Jenn he was serious about her. Aaron Erb later confronted Devin, calling him arrogant and egotistical, but Devin was unbothered. Devin took the initiative, and Aaron looked jealous. Devin wouldn’t apologize for his actions, which was the right move.
Devin protects Jenn from unnecessary gossip so he can show her who he really is.
Devin Remains Authentic Despite Getting Hate From The Other Men
Jenn Appreciates His Ability To Stay True To Himself
Jenn often praises Devin for his ability to be himself. Even though he’s constantly scrutinized by the other men, Devin leaves the drama behind when he is with Jenn. She even complimented Devin, saying she loves how he enjoys himself and has fun during the process, a tough accomplishment considering he is always fighting with the other men. Thomas Nguyen, one of Devin’s biggest rivals, used precious time with Jenn to complain about Devin, which eventually backfired on him. Devin protects Jenn from unnecessary gossip so he can show her who he really is.
Devin’s Timing Is Impeccable (And So Is His Strategy)
The Pace Of His Relationship With Jenn Is Working
While other contestants have struggled to manage their emotions while dating Jenn, Devin always finds a way to balance light flirtation with meaningful conversation. He has used his limited time with Jenn to slowly open up about his insecurities and unconventional family background rather than keeping their talks at a surface level. During their most recent one-on-one, Devin had built a strong enough foundation with Jenn to speak openly about growing up without a father, something Jenn could relate to. This strategy allowed Jenn to feel seen by Devin, who isn’t afraid of vulnerability.
Devin’s journey has been a masterclass in how to approach dating on The Bachelorette season 21. He remains confident, even if his friendships with the other men suffer. By putting Jenn at the center of his journey, Jenn can let her guard down and appreciate the romantic moments he creates with her. Devin’s self-awareness has shown Jenn she doesn’t need to hide any parts of herself, and Devin is smart not to reveal non-relevant problems to Jenn. His strategy and authenticity are sure to win Jenn’s heart and a lesson for all future The Bachelorette hopefuls.
The Bachelorette airs Mondays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC