With Carson Beck transferring to the Miami Hurricanes in January, Georgia’s quarterback position is wide open. Following an impressive performance in the recent G-Day scrimmage, Gunner Stockton appears to be leading the race for the starting job this fall. Stockton, who earns a projected $823,000 through NIL deals, started for the winning team during the spring game, completing 17 of 34 passes for 309 yards and two touchdowns.
His main competition, redshirt freshman Ryan Puglisi, threw for 224 yards and two scores on 23-of-49 passing for the opposing squad. While Puglisi is still early in his collegiate career, Stockton has already seen meaningful game action — including a critical role in last season’s SEC Championship, stepping in for the injured Beck.
According to Andy Staples (April 22), Stockton has been patiently waiting for his turn, having spent the last three seasons behind Stetson Bennett and then Carson Beck. Although he helped close out Georgia’s win against Texas in the SEC title game, his first official start — a loss to Notre Dame — was a tough debut.
Head coach Kirby Smart has yet to name a starter, but reports suggest Stockton has the “inside track” thanks to his experience and leadership. The decision not to pursue a veteran QB in the transfer portal further signals Georgia’s confidence in him. An official announcement is still pending.
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