Georgia's Gunner Stockton Poised for Breakout 2026 Season

Veteran QB expected to guide Bulldogs back to College Football Playoff

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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Gunner Stockton, Georgia's starting quarterback, is predicted to lead the Bulldogs back to the College Football Playoff in 2026 after a strong 2025 season. Stockton, who took over as the full-time starter last year, is expected to build on his experience and steady play to help Georgia contend for a national championship.

Why it matters

Stockton's return gives Georgia a proven leader at the most important position on the field. As long as head coach Kirby Smart is in Athens, the Bulldogs will be in the national title conversation, and Stockton's veteran presence is seen as a key factor in their playoff aspirations.

The details

Stockton started all 14 games for Georgia in 2025, throwing for 2,894 yards, 24 touchdowns, and just 5 interceptions, finishing with a 150.59 pass efficiency rating, the highest among returning SEC quarterbacks. He had an elite performance against Ole Miss, going 26-for-31 for 289 yards and 4 touchdowns while also rushing for 59 yards and a score.

  • Stockton earned his first start for Georgia in the 2024 season's Sugar Bowl.
  • Stockton started all 14 games for Georgia in the 2025 season.

The players

Gunner Stockton

Georgia's starting quarterback who is expected to lead the Bulldogs back to the College Football Playoff in 2026 after a strong 2025 season.

Kirby Smart

The head coach of the Georgia Bulldogs, who has kept the team in national title contention during his tenure.

Jake Fromm

A former Georgia quarterback who has praised Stockton for his performance in the 2025 season.

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What they’re saying

“(Stockton) needs to look back on this year and say 'I exceeded a lot of expectations,'”

— Jake Fromm, Former Georgia quarterback (DawgNation Daily podcast)

“As long as Kirby Smart is in Athens, Georgia belongs in every title conversation.”

— Ryan Guthrie, PFSN analyst (PFSN)

What’s next

Stockton is entering his second season as Georgia's full-time starting quarterback, and his performance in the 2026 season will be crucial in determining the Bulldogs' chances of returning to the College Football Playoff.

The takeaway

Gunner Stockton's steady play and veteran leadership are expected to be key factors in Georgia's quest to return to the College Football Playoff in 2026, as the Bulldogs look to build on their success under head coach Kirby Smart.