As the University of Georgia continues its dominance in college football, one of the most talked-about rising stars in the program is Gunner Stockton, the freshman quarterback. Hailing from Tiger, Georgia, Stockton was one of the most highly sought-after recruits in the 2023 class. Known for his rocket arm, strong leadership skills, and impressive football IQ, Stockton was always expected to make an impact at Georgia. However, it’s not just his physical abilities that have earned him rave reviews—his mentality, determination, and internal drive have made him stand out even more among his teammates. In the words of many of his fellow Bulldogs, “He has that fire underneath him.”
The statement is a simple yet profound observation of Stockton’s competitive nature and relentless pursuit of success. While much of the media attention surrounding Gunner Stockton focuses on his on-field skills, his teammates have repeatedly highlighted the passion and intensity he brings to the Georgia football team. As Stockton continues to learn the ropes under head coach Kirby Smart and alongside other veteran players, it’s clear that the young quarterback is not only impressing coaches but also earning the respect of his teammates through his fiery determination.
The Rise of Gunner Stockton: From High School Star to Georgia Freshman
Before diving into his teammates’ remarks, it’s important to understand why Gunner Stockton is viewed as such a significant figure in Georgia’s future. Stockton, a four-star recruit out of Rabun County High School, was one of the most highly-rated quarterbacks in the 2023 recruiting class. His high school career was nothing short of spectacular, with more than 13,000 passing yards, 159 touchdowns, and numerous accolades. Stockton’s ability to read defenses, make precise throws, and display exceptional composure under pressure made him a standout player in Georgia’s recruiting class.
At 6-foot-1 and 210 pounds, Stockton has the build and the athleticism to succeed in the SEC. He’s known for his quick release, deep ball accuracy, and ability to make throws on the move. His leadership skills, honed throughout his high school career, have translated well to the college level, where he’s quickly adapted to the intense competition of Georgia’s quarterback room.
However, despite all his impressive stats and credentials, it’s his mentality and attitude that have set him apart during his time at Georgia. According to many of his teammates, Stockton’s competitive fire is undeniable.
‘He Has That Fire Underneath Him’ – Teammates Speak Out
Several of Gunner Stockton’s Georgia teammates have come forward to talk about his mentality and what makes him special. While talent is often the focus for a freshman quarterback, it’s Stockton’s approach to the game and the work ethic he brings to every practice that has caught the attention of his peers.
Leadership and Passion
One of the first things that teammates mention when discussing Stockton is his leadership abilities. For a freshman quarterback to come in and lead is a tall order, but Stockton has shown maturity well beyond his years. According to several of his teammates, it’s his passion for the game that sets the tone in the locker room.
“Gunner’s not afraid to step up,” said one of his Georgia offensive linemen. “From day one, you could see that he wasn’t going to wait around for someone to give him the reins. He has that fire underneath him—he wants to be the best, and he pushes everyone around him to be the best.”
This sense of leadership is not only about calling plays or making sure the offense runs smoothly; it’s about setting an example and inspiring others. Stockton’s competitive drive is infectious, and his teammates feed off of that energy. Whether it’s leading by example during conditioning drills or offering words of encouragement when things aren’t going well, Stockton is proving that he’s willing to put in the work to get better—and he expects the same from everyone around him.
The Work Ethic That Speaks for Itself
A key part of Stockton’s fire comes from his relentless work ethic. It’s not just about what he can do on the field, but also about what he does in practice, in the film room, and in the weight room. Many of Stockton’s teammates have pointed out that he’s one of the first to arrive at practice and one of the last to leave.
“He’s always grinding,” said a senior wide receiver. “He’s out there after practice, throwing extra passes, trying to perfect his timing with the wide receivers. It’s that extra work that makes him dangerous. He’s not just relying on his natural talent; he’s willing to put in the hours.”
That dedication is what has made Stockton a player to watch in the future. His commitment to improving every aspect of his game is what separates him from other young quarterbacks. Stockton’s drive to be the best isn’t just about achieving personal success, but about helping the entire team reach its goals. His teammates appreciate that about him, as it reflects the overall culture of Georgia football: excellence through hard work.
A Fearless Competitor
One of the things that makes Stockton such an intriguing prospect is his fearless approach to the game. From his high school days, Stockton has always been known for stepping up in big moments, and that has translated to his time at Georgia. His teammates speak about his confidence and mental toughness—two characteristics that are essential for any quarterback, especially one in the SEC.
“Gunner isn’t intimidated by anything or anyone,” said a defensive player who competes against Stockton in practice. “He’s a competitor. He wants to prove himself every day, and you can see that in how he handles adversity. Whether it’s a bad throw or a tough practice session, he just bounces back and stays locked in. He doesn’t get rattled.”
This sense of mental toughness is exactly what you need in a quarterback, especially one who will face some of the toughest defenses in college football. With teams like Alabama, LSU, and Tennessee constantly vying for dominance in the SEC, a quarterback like Stockton who isn’t afraid of competition and isn’t easily shaken will be invaluable to Georgia’s future.
Motivating Others
Stockton’s fiery spirit isn’t just evident in his own play but also in the way he motivates his teammates. Quarterback is a position that requires communication and collaboration, and Gunner has taken it upon himself to build strong relationships with his fellow players. His leadership isn’t limited to simply calling out instructions or rallying the team on game day; it’s about making those around him better every single day.
“He’s a leader who makes the people around him better,” said a Georgia tight end. “He pushes us to do more, and that fire he has is contagious. When you see your quarterback out there giving it his all, you can’t help but give everything you have in return.”
The Future of Gunner Stockton
As Stockton continues to develop under head coach Kirby Smart and alongside his talented teammates, the question remains: how will he evolve as Georgia’s quarterback? With his fire, work ethic, leadership, and fearlessness, Stockton appears poised to play a significant role in Georgia’s future, both on and off the field. His potential to become a top quarterback in the SEC is clear, and the respect he’s earned from his teammates is a strong indicator that he has the right mentality to take on that challenge.
In conclusion, the fire that Gunner Stockton brings to the field and the locker room is one of the defining characteristics that has made him a standout player in Georgia’s football program. His determination, work ethic, and leadership abilities have earned him the respect of his teammates, and it’s that passion that could propel him to success in the coming seasons. As Georgia looks toward the future, Stockton’s relentless drive will be a key ingredient in the Bulldogs’ quest for continued excellence.
