In a move that sent shockwaves of excitement through the Georgia Bulldogs community, star quarterback Gunner Stockton has officially announced that he will be returning for the 2025-26 college football season. The highly anticipated statement came early Friday morning via social media, where the Bulldogs’ fan-favorite made it clear: “I’m not going anywhere.”
The decision instantly ignited celebrations in Athens and across the Bulldog Nation, with students, alumni, and fans flooding message boards and social media to express their joy and relief. Stockton, who had been weighing his options between entering the NFL Draft and returning to Georgia, chose the latter—giving a massive boost to the Bulldogs’ national title hopes for next season.
Coming off a phenomenal 2024-25 campaign in which Stockton led Georgia to a College Football Playoff appearance and broke multiple school records for passing efficiency and touchdowns, his draft stock was soaring. Experts projected him as a potential second-round pick with a high ceiling, and many believed he had little left to prove at the collegiate level.
Yet Stockton’s return speaks volumes about his loyalty to the program, his unfinished business in Athens, and his desire to chase something even greater—a national championship as a starting quarterback.
“I love this team, this coaching staff, and this university,” Stockton wrote in his announcement. “There’s something special building here, and I want to be part of it for one more ride. We’ve got work to do.”
Head Coach Kirby Smart, who has mentored Stockton since he arrived in Athens, couldn’t hide his excitement at the news. In a press conference held just hours after the announcement, Smart praised Stockton’s leadership, resilience, and growth on and off the field.
“Gunner is the heart of this team,” Smart said. “What he brings to this locker room goes beyond stats. His decision to return speaks to his character and his commitment to greatness—not just for himself, but for Georgia football. We’re going to make sure he has every tool to succeed and take this program to the next level.”
Smart also teased changes in the offensive scheme tailored to Stockton’s strengths. “We’re building this offense around him. Gunner’s mobility, his deep-ball accuracy, his command at the line—he’s ready to lead this team to something historic.”
Stockton’s return positions the Bulldogs as an early favorite for the 2025-26 national title. With key returning talent across the offensive line, a seasoned wide receiver corps, and a revamped defense, the Bulldogs are looking increasingly like a juggernaut.
Athens is already buzzing with excitement. Season ticket inquiries have surged since the announcement, and merchandise sales featuring Stockton’s number have skyrocketed. For fans, it’s not just about the wins—it’s about the leadership, grit, and fire Stockton brings to Sanford Stadium every Saturday.
Even NFL scouts have weighed in on Stockton’s decision, with most applauding his maturity and strategic foresight. “Another year under Kirby Smart, with a team capable of going all the way, could elevate Gunner into first-round territory,” said one AFC scout. “He’s betting on himself, and honestly, he has all the tools to make that bet pay off.”
For Gunner Stockton, the decision wasn’t just about draft positioning or fame—it was about legacy. It was about writing the final chapter of a college career that already holds a special place in Bulldog history.
As Georgia fans flood downtown Athens to celebrate, the message is clear: Gunner Stockton isn’t just staying. He’s returning with a mission.
And come fall, all eyes will be on Sanford Stadium, where No. 14 will once again take the field—this time with an entire state behind him, and a national championship in his sights.
