Estimated $1 million During the quarterback battle, a Georgia star sends a message about Gunner Stockton.

As Georgia’s quarterback competition heats up this spring, all eyes are on who will take the reins of one of college football’s most prestigious offenses. But amid the speculation and scrutiny, a clear and emphatic vote of confidence was recently delivered—not by coaches, not by analysts, but by one of the Bulldogs’ own offensive stars. The endorsement came alongside an interesting revelation: Gunner Stockton’s estimated NIL valuation is nearing the $1 million mark.

For a player who has yet to start a full season, such a figure—and such a statement from a teammate—signals something significant.

Quarterback Battle Intensifies in Athens

Georgia’s quarterback room is arguably the most closely watched in the SEC heading into the 2025 season. With the departure of Carson Beck to the NFL Draft, the Bulldogs are now deciding between three contenders: redshirt sophomore Gunner Stockton, highly-touted freshman Ryan Puglisi, and former five-star Brock Vandagriff, who returned after testing the transfer waters.

Head coach Kirby Smart has kept his cards close to the vest, refusing to name a leader in the competition through the early weeks of spring practice. Still, those around the program have sensed a shift.

And one of the clearest signals yet came during an interview with Georgia tight end Oscar Delp.

Delp’s Strong Endorsement of Stockton

“Gunner’s different,” Delp told reporters after a recent spring practice session. “He’s one of those guys who steps in the huddle and you just feel like he’s got it. That leadership, that confidence—he commands respect. And his arm? I don’t think people give him enough credit for the throws he can make.”

Delp, who is expected to be a top target in Georgia’s offense this season, didn’t mince words when asked who has stood out most at the quarterback position.

“I’ve got love for all of them, but I think Gunner’s putting together something special,” he said. “He’s hungry. He’s waited his turn. And he’s taken ownership of this team.”

The comment set off waves across the Georgia fanbase and college football media, as Delp is not only a vocal locker room presence but also one of the most respected playmakers on the team. His opinion carries weight.

NIL Valuation Hits Seven Figures

Stockton’s recent performances haven’t just impressed his teammates—they’re also catching the eye of NIL experts. According to On3’s NIL Valuation platform, Stockton’s brand power, social media engagement, and projected on-field impact have pushed his estimated valuation to just under $1 million.

The number reflects not just potential earnings, but perceived market value in the new world of name, image, and likeness compensation. It places Stockton among the most valuable players in college football who have yet to become household names nationally.

His marketability is bolstered by a few key factors:

• Georgia’s national profile: As a perennial College Football Playoff contender, Georgia quarterbacks are consistently in the spotlight.
• Stockton’s Georgia roots: Hailing from Rabun County, Georgia, his connection to the state adds to his appeal.
• Poised breakout potential: With Carson Beck gone, many believe Stockton could be the breakout story of 2025.

Stockton’s Journey: From Small-Town Star to UGA Spotlight

Gunner Stockton’s story is one Georgia fans know well. A four-star recruit from the Class of 2022, Stockton lit up high school fields in Tiger, Georgia. He shattered state passing records, throwing for 13,652 yards and 177 touchdowns while rushing for over 4,000 more yards in his career.

Despite being buried on the depth chart behind Stetson Bennett and then Carson Beck, Stockton never considered transferring. His patience and commitment to the program have made him a favorite among coaches and teammates.

“He’s waited for his time, and he’s prepared every single day like he’s the starter,” one staff member shared anonymously. “That’s the kind of guy you want leading your team.”

Now, with the spotlight shifting his way, Stockton is making the most of the opportunity.

Competitive Fire and Composure

While Ryan Puglisi brings jaw-dropping arm talent and Brock Vandagriff adds veteran savvy, Stockton is winning favor because of how he handles pressure situations in practice. Coaches have been particularly impressed with his decision-making, poise in the pocket, and ability to extend plays with his legs when necessary.

“He’s not just a scrambler,” one source close to the program said. “He’s a creator. When the play breaks down, Gunner finds a way to make something happen.”

That improvisation has drawn comparisons to another Georgia legend—Stetson Bennett, who led the Bulldogs to back-to-back national titles. But where Bennett’s path was winding and unconventional, Stockton’s seems to be lining up like a rocket ready to launch.

The Million-Dollar Mindset

The NIL valuation may be new, but Stockton’s mindset hasn’t changed. Despite the financial buzz, those close to him say his focus remains entirely on football.

“I’m just trying to get better every day,” Stockton said during a media session last week. “There’s a lot of talent in our room, and I’ve got a lot of respect for Brock and Ryan. We’re pushing each other. It’s making all of us better.”

It’s a classic response from a player grounded in team-first principles. But even in that humble answer, the quiet confidence that Delp spoke of is unmistakable.

The Locker Room Dynamics

Leadership often defines quarterback competitions as much as arm strength or accuracy. And according to several insiders, Stockton is emerging as the most vocal and commanding presence in team meetings and film sessions.

“He speaks up. He takes charge,” one team source noted. “You can feel it. The guys respond to him. That’s not something you teach—it’s either there or it isn’t.”

Delp isn’t the only player to publicly praise Stockton either. Offensive lineman Tate Ratledge recently shared, “Gunner’s earned our trust. That’s the best thing you can say about a quarterback. You trust that he’s going to put you in a position to win.”

Kirby Smart Keeping Cards Close

Despite the noise around Stockton, Smart has yet to tip his hand. The Georgia head coach has emphasized that the competition will go into the summer and likely into fall camp. It’s a strategy he has used before, often withholding decisions until all players have had ample opportunity to prove themselves.

“We’ve got three guys who can win games for us,” Smart said last week. “We’re looking for consistency, leadership, and the ability to execute. It’s about who moves the ball and takes care of the football.”

Still, Smart is known for rewarding loyalty and preparation—two categories where Stockton has consistently excelled.

High Expectations for 2025

Georgia’s 2025 schedule sets the stage for a quarterback to either thrive or struggle early. The Bulldogs open against Clemson in a high-stakes nonconference clash, followed by SEC road trips to Texas and Ole Miss. There is little room for error.

With national championship hopes once again on the line, Georgia needs a steady hand under center. That reality could favor Stockton, whose reputation as a cerebral, composed leader is growing by the day.

If he wins the job, he won’t just be playing for a starting spot—he’ll be managing a million-dollar brand, leading a top-5 team, and stepping into the legacy of past Georgia greats like Jake Fromm, Aaron Murray, and Stetson Bennett.

Teammates Rallying Around Their QB?

One of the more subtle but telling developments in spring camp has been the way teammates have gravitated toward Stockton during and after practices. Whether it’s throwing extra routes with receivers, chatting with linemen about protection schemes, or staying late to review tape, Stockton has embraced every facet of the QB1 role—even before officially earning the title.

This organic leadership doesn’t go unnoticed.

“You can’t fake that kind of presence,” said one assistant coach. “Gunner’s the guy players naturally want to follow.”

The Moment Is Now

A year ago, Gunner Stockton was a backup with potential. Today, he’s a frontrunner in one of college football’s biggest position battles, endorsed by his teammates, and riding a wave of momentum fueled by elite play and off-field growth.

The million-dollar valuation? That’s just the cherry on top.

The real prize for Stockton would be leading the Georgia Bulldogs out of the tunnel in Week 1—and showing the college football world why those closest to the program are betting on him.

As Oscar Delp said best: “He’s ready. Gunner Stockton’s moment is coming. And when it does, everyone’s going to see what we already know.”