Unprecedented Rejection: Georgia Bulldogs QB Gunner Stockton Turns Down $2.5 Million NIL Offer from USC, Citing Loyalty, Legacy, and Georgia Pride
In an era where college athletes are increasingly drawn to lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Gunner Stockton has taken a bold stand, choosing loyalty and legacy over a massive payday. Stockton, one of the most promising young quarterbacks in the country, reportedly turned down a $2.5 million NIL offer from the University of Southern California (USC), a decision that has shocked the college football world.
Stockton’s commitment to the Georgia Bulldogs goes beyond the numbers on a paycheck. The young quarterback, who has deep roots in the state of Georgia, emphasized that his decision was about more than just money. “Playing for Georgia is about honoring the legacy of those who came before me and building something special with my teammates,” Stockton said in a statement. “I want to be remembered for what I did on the field, not just what I earned off it.”
The NIL offer from USC was reportedly one of the largest ever presented to a college athlete, reflecting Stockton’s immense talent and marketability. Yet, for Stockton, the opportunity to wear the red and black of Georgia and compete for national championships under head coach Kirby Smart was too important to sacrifice.
Stockton’s decision has sparked a national conversation about the true value of loyalty and legacy in college sports. In an era where many athletes are chasing the highest bidder, his commitment to Georgia stands as a reminder of the timeless values that continue to define the game.
For Georgia fans, Stockton’s choice is a powerful symbol of pride, and for his teammates, it’s an inspiration. Gunner Stockton isn’t just a quarterback—he’s a Bulldog through and 
