Gunner Stockton: A Question Mark for Georgia Football, But Not the Biggest One
Gunner Stockton is undeniably one of the most talked-about recruits in Georgia football history, but as the 2025 season inches closer, his role remains somewhat of a question mark. However, despite the attention he has garnered, it’s important to note that he may not be the most significant uncertainty the Bulldogs face as they look to defend their national championship and maintain their dominance in the SEC.
A Promising Talent
Stockton, a former four-star quarterback from Rabun County High School in Georgia, was heralded as one of the top quarterbacks in his class when he committed to the University of Georgia. His high school career was nothing short of impressive, breaking multiple school and state records, including passing for over 12,000 yards and 150 touchdowns. His ability to read defenses, make accurate throws on the run, and demonstrate leadership qualities on the field earned him a spot among the best quarterbacks in the nation.
Given Georgia’s recent success, including back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022, many fans and analysts expected Stockton to be the next big thing at quarterback for the Bulldogs. With his natural athleticism and strong arm, he seemed to be the ideal candidate to follow in the footsteps of past UGA quarterbacks like Jake Fromm and Stetson Bennett.
The Backup Role and Development
As of now, Stockton’s role on the team is far from certain. With Georgia’s quarterback depth chart already featuring Carson Beck and Brock Vandagriff—both highly talented quarterbacks who have spent time in the program and understand the system—Stockton is not expected to be the starting quarterback immediately. Beck, who was widely regarded as the next in line to replace Bennett after his departure, has shown strong potential in spring practices, making him the likely starter for the upcoming season.
Vandagriff, meanwhile, has been patiently waiting for his opportunity but remains a key figure in the competition for the starting spot. Both Beck and Vandagriff have experience and a year or two in the system, putting them ahead of Stockton on the depth chart. It’s clear that while Stockton is talented, his transition to college football could take time.
Stockton’s Development Is Important, But Not Urgent
Despite his impressive high school pedigree, Stockton’s path to playing time will likely be a gradual one. This doesn’t diminish his value to the program, but rather highlights the depth and talent that Georgia possesses. The Bulldogs are fortunate to have a situation where a highly regarded talent like Stockton can afford to develop behind two established quarterbacks.
Rather than focusing on when Stockton will play, it might be more relevant to look at his long-term trajectory. If Beck and Vandagriff both prove capable of leading Georgia for the next season or two, Stockton could be in a position to take the reins once those players move on. This would allow him the time needed to adjust to the demands of SEC football, refine his mechanics, and grow as a leader.
The Bigger Questions for Georgia Football
While Stockton’s future is intriguing, Georgia’s biggest questions heading into the 2025 season lie elsewhere. With key players such as Brock Bowers, Jalen Carter, and other notable NFL prospects departing, the Bulldogs will face significant challenges in replacing their star power. Georgia’s defense, long a hallmark of their success, will need to reload with new talent. Likewise, the offensive line and running back position must be rebuilt, as both will be critical to maintaining offensive efficiency.
In many ways, the uncertainty surrounding Stockton is just one small piece in a much larger puzzle for Georgia football. His development is important, but it won’t make or break Georgia’s success in the immediate future. The team’s ability to replace lost talent and continue to develop its existing players will likely determine whether they remain atop the SEC and the national landscape.
Conclusion
Gunner Stockton may not be the starting quarterback for Georgia in 2025, and his role remains uncertain, but that doesn’t overshadow the bigger challenges the Bulldogs face. Georgia’s future success will depend on how well they reload at key positions, particularly on defense and the offensive line. As for Stockton, the future remains bright, but the priority for now is how he continues to develop and learn from the talented players around him.
