Gunner Stockton: The Quarterback Who Redefined Georgia Football

Gunner Stockton, a rising star in American football, has captivated fans and analysts alike with his exceptional talent and perseverance. Born in Tiger, Georgia, Stockton is currently a redshirt sophomore quarterback for the Georgia Bulldogs. Known for his record-breaking high school career and his steady rise in college football, Gunner’s journey is one of dedication, family support, and an unyielding passion for the game. This article delves into the life of Gunner Stockton, exploring his early years, achievements, personal life, and the qualities that make him a standout athlete.

Key Information About Gunner Stockton

Early Life & Childhood

Gunner Stockton was born into a family deeply connected to sports and community. His father, Rob Stockton, was a celebrated safety at Georgia Southern University and is remembered as one of the greatest in the program’s history. His mother, Sherrie Stockton, was a basketball star at Erskine College and now serves as a guidance counselor at Rabun County High School. Gunner’s sister, Georgia Stockton, also inherited the family’s athletic genes and plays collegiate basketball.

Growing up in Tiger, a small town in northeast Georgia, Gunner was surrounded by a supportive community that fostered his love for sports. From an early age, he showcased remarkable athleticism and leadership skills. By six years old, he was already playing quarterback for his youth football team. His upbringing emphasized discipline, teamwork, and humility—qualities that would later define his career.

Education & High School Career

Rabun County High School

Gunner attended Rabun County High School, where he quickly emerged as a football prodigy. As a freshman quarterback, he led his team to a region championship and state playoff quarterfinals. Over four years at Rabun County:

• He set Georgia state records for career passing touchdowns (177), passing yards (13,652), and rushing touchdowns (77).
• As a senior in 2021, he threw for 4,134 yards with 55 touchdowns and just one interception while rushing for 956 yards and 15 touchdowns.
• He was named All-State four times and won the Gatorade Georgia Player of the Year award in 2021.

Recruitment Journey

Initially committed to South Carolina during his junior year of high school due to connections with its coaching staff, Gunner later flipped his commitment to the University of Georgia after coaching changes at South Carolina. His decision highlighted his desire to play for his home-state team and continue building on the relationships he had developed with Georgia’s coaching staff.

College Career & Achievements

Early Years at Georgia

Gunner enrolled early at the University of Georgia in January 2022. Although he redshirted his freshman year as part of Georgia’s national championship-winning team in 2022, he used this time to learn from experienced teammates and refine his skills.

In 2023, Stockton served as the third-string quarterback behind Carson Beck and Brock Vandagriff. Despite limited playing time during the season:

• He appeared in three games.
• Completed six passes on nine attempts for 52 yards.
• Showed flashes of brilliance during practice sessions and scrimmages.

Breakout Moment: SEC Championship Game 2024

Stockton’s defining moment came during the SEC Championship Game in December 2024. When starting quarterback Carson Beck went down with an injury at halftime, Gunner stepped up under immense pressure. Leading the Bulldogs to a thrilling victory over Texas:

• He orchestrated multiple scoring drives.
• Displayed composure by converting key third downs with both his arm and legs.
• Helped secure Georgia’s third SEC title under coach Kirby Smart.

Awards & Recognition

• Gatorade Georgia Player of the Year (2021)
• Four-time All-State selection in high school
• Participant in the prestigious All-American Bowl (2022)
• Member of Georgia’s national championship-winning team (2022)

Timeline of Key Life Events

Cultural & Social Background

Hailing from a close-knit community in Tiger, Gunner’s upbringing reflects traditional southern values—faith, family, and football. His love for hunting is a testament to his connection with nature and rural life. The name “Gunner” itself carries historical significance within his family; it was inspired by his great-grandfather’s military service during World War II.

Relationships & Personal Life

Gunner Stockton is private about his personal relationships. While there has been speculation about his dating life, he remains focused on football and academics. His strong family ties are evident through frequent mentions of their influence on his career.

Hobbies & Interests

Outside football:

• Gunner enjoys hunting—a tradition he shares with friends from Rabun County.
• He is passionate about outdoor activities like fishing.
• He values spending time with family and giving back to his community.

Quotes & Anecdotes

1. “You can lead by your actions by just living the right way.”
2. “Football is more than a game; it’s about building relationships.”
3. On hunting: “It teaches patience—a skill every quarterback needs.”
4. After SEC Championship win: “This is special because of the guys I get to do it with.”

Did You Know?

1. Gunner’s father is in the Georgia Southern Athletic Hall of Fame.
2. His sister’s name is “Georgia,” though not after the university.
3. He holds state records for both passing touchdowns and rushing scores.
4. He once threw a football over 66 yards as an eighth grader.
5. His first college offer came from North Carolina when he was just 14 years old.
6. He declined attending Elite camps to focus on team responsibilities.
7. Gunner’s great-grandfather served as a togglier in World War II.
8. He drives an old truck passed down from his grandfather.
9. His NIL valuation ranks among the top college athletes.
10. Despite limited playing time in college so far, coaches praise him as “a winner.”

Gunner Stockton’s journey from Tiger to Athens exemplifies determination and resilience. With each passing season at Georgia, he continues to prove why he is regarded as one of the most promising quarterbacks in college football today.

References

1. Gunner Stockton – 2024 Football Roster – Georgia Athletics
2. Gunner Stockton – Rabun c/o 2022 – BLITZ Sports
3. Gunner Stockton – Wikipedia
4. Gunner Stockton – Georgia Bulldogs Quarterback – ESPN
5. Gunner Stockton: The got-to-know stories about the new Bulldog – DawgNation
6. Who is Gunner Stockton? Everything to know about Georgia’s redshirt sophomore QB – Fox Sports
7. How Georgia backup QB Gunner Stockton delivered go-head TD drive against Texas – DawgNation
8. Who is Gunner Stockton? Meet Georgia’s backup QB who saved SEC championship after Carson Beck injury – Sporting News
9. Georgia Bulldogs: Gunner Stockton Stats and Highlights – CBS Sports
10. Gunner Stockton’s high school career and records at Rabun County – MaxPreps
11. Kirby Smart praises Gunner Stockton after SEC Championship win – 247Sports
12. Gunner Stockton: High School to College Journey – USA Today Sports
13. The rise of Gunner Stockton: From Tiger, GA to SEC stardom – Bleacher Report
14. Gunner Stockton’s recruitment story and commitment to Georgia – SI.com
15. Georgia Bulldogs QB depth chart and Gunner Stockton’s role – Yahoo Sports