Georgia quarterback Gunner Stockton talks about his relationship with Ryan Puglisi.

As college football continues to evolve, one of the most intriguing and pivotal storylines is the development of quarterbacks, particularly those vying for starting positions in competitive programs like Georgia. The Georgia Bulldogs have been one of the most successful college football programs in recent years, with a national championship in 2022 and a continued focus on excellence under head coach Kirby Smart. A significant part of the Bulldogs’ success has been their quarterback play, and with several talented quarterbacks competing for the starting role, the relationships among these players have become increasingly important.

Two quarterbacks who have garnered significant attention in recent months are Gunner Stockton and Ryan Puglisi. Both young quarterbacks are highly regarded, each bringing unique strengths to the field, and as they continue to develop and push one another, their relationship off the field is equally important. Stockton, a talented signal-caller who has been with Georgia for a while, has seen his fair share of competition in the quarterback room, particularly with the arrival of the freshman Ryan Puglisi. Despite the intense competition, Stockton has made it clear that his relationship with Puglisi goes beyond football and extends into a collaborative, supportive dynamic that will help both players grow.

In this article, we will explore Gunner Stockton’s relationship with Ryan Puglisi, delving into how they’ve helped each other evolve, how their relationship contributes to Georgia’s overall quarterback development, and what the future holds for these two quarterbacks.

Gunner Stockton’s Journey to Georgia

Before we delve into Stockton and Puglisi’s relationship, it’s essential to understand Gunner Stockton’s journey to Georgia. A 5-star recruit out of Rabun County, Georgia, Stockton entered the college football scene with considerable hype. His high school career was nothing short of impressive, as he led Rabun County to multiple state titles and became the state’s all-time leader in passing yards and touchdowns. Stockton’s combination of arm strength, mobility, and ability to read defenses quickly made him one of the top quarterbacks in his recruiting class.

When Stockton committed to Georgia, it was seen as a major coup for the Bulldogs’ recruiting efforts. Georgia, under Kirby Smart, had established itself as a premier program, consistently bringing in top-tier talent, and Stockton was expected to be one of the key pieces in the team’s future. However, despite his high ranking, Stockton knew that his journey at Georgia would require patience. As he entered the quarterback room at Georgia, he was immediately faced with the challenge of learning behind established players and competing for playing time.

In his first year with the Bulldogs, Stockton didn’t see the field as much as he might have hoped. However, like many young quarterbacks, he embraced the opportunity to develop his skills, learn from the veterans, and improve his understanding of Georgia’s offensive system. His growth over that first season was significant, and he continued to develop as a versatile quarterback, ready to take on a leadership role as the starting quarterback when the time came.

Ryan Puglisi’s Arrival at Georgia

Enter Ryan Puglisi, a highly rated 4-star quarterback out of Jersey City, New Jersey. Puglisi’s commitment to Georgia was a significant moment in the program’s recruiting efforts. Known for his strong arm, excellent pocket presence, and advanced understanding of the game, Puglisi quickly became a highly touted recruit. His high school career demonstrated a remarkable level of poise and maturity, and many saw him as a future star for Georgia.

While Stockton had already spent a year learning the ropes at Georgia, Puglisi’s arrival in 2024 added another layer of competition to the quarterback room. For many, the competition between Stockton and Puglisi was one of the most intriguing storylines heading into the season, with both players possessing the potential to lead Georgia’s offense. As a true freshman, Puglisi was expected to be a talented contributor, but like Stockton, he would need time to adjust to the rigors of college football and to the intensity of competing for the starting quarterback job at a program like Georgia.

With the high stakes of competing for playing time, Stockton and Puglisi could have easily become rivals, with both players vying for the same role. However, the relationship between the two quarterbacks has been far from adversarial. Instead, it has been collaborative, built on mutual respect and the understanding that they each bring something unique to the table.

Stockton’s Perspective on Puglisi

In interviews, Gunner Stockton has expressed nothing but admiration for Ryan Puglisi. Stockton is well aware of the expectations that come with being a quarterback at Georgia, and he understands the pressure that comes with being a young player in such a competitive environment. According to Stockton, he sees Puglisi as not only a competitor but also as a friend and a teammate. Their relationship, he says, is based on the desire to help each other improve, rather than create unnecessary tension or conflict.

“Ryan’s a great guy. He’s a really hard worker,” Stockton said. “We’re both here to get better. I know there’s a lot of competition, but at the end of the day, we’re all working for the same goal: to help this team win. If I can help him learn something, or if he can help me with a new technique or concept, that’s what matters.”

Stockton has taken on a mentor role for Puglisi, offering guidance on the nuances of Georgia’s offense, helping him learn the playbook, and providing insight into the mental and emotional aspects of being a quarterback in the SEC. Stockton recognizes that Puglisi’s arrival represents an opportunity for both of them to elevate their games. As much as Stockton is focused on earning the starting role, he is equally invested in making sure Puglisi is prepared to step into that role when the time comes.

“I’ve been here a year, so I know how things work. I try to help Ryan where I can, just like how the older guys helped me last year,” Stockton said. “It’s about building a good relationship, building trust. That’s what the quarterback room needs. There’s a lot of pressure on us, and we need to have each other’s backs.”

Puglisi’s Take on Stockton

On the flip side, Ryan Puglisi has also spoken highly of Gunner Stockton and the relationship they’ve built. Puglisi is not only a highly skilled quarterback, but he’s also mature for his age, understanding the importance of collaboration and growth in the quarterback room. While Puglisi is undoubtedly focused on earning the starting job, he acknowledges that he has a lot to learn from Stockton, who has been through much of the development process.

“I’ve learned a lot from Gunner,” Puglisi said. “He’s been in the system for a year, and he’s helped me with everything from the playbook to the mental side of the game. He’s a guy who’s had to work hard to get to where he is, and I respect that a lot. He’s been really open with me, and I’m just trying to take in as much as I can.”

Puglisi’s approach to their relationship reflects a maturity beyond his years. While many freshmen may be solely focused on competing for the starting job, Puglisi recognizes the value of learning from Stockton, who is an experienced member of the quarterback room. He’s taken the time to absorb as much knowledge as possible, and in turn, Stockton has welcomed the opportunity to help Puglisi improve and grow.

“Competition is great, but it’s also about pushing each other to get better,” Puglisi said. “Gunner’s been a really good mentor to me. We have a great relationship, and we know that it’s all about doing what’s best for the team.”

The Dynamic in Georgia’s Quarterback Room

The quarterback position is one of the most scrutinized and competitive in all of college football, especially at a program like Georgia, where championship aspirations are always at the forefront. The dynamic between Gunner Stockton and Ryan Puglisi is one that is crucial to the Bulldogs’ success moving forward. While both players want to start, they recognize that their success as individuals is tied to the success of the team.

As much as their relationship off the field is about mentoring and support, it’s also about pushing each other to improve. The competition between them is healthy and beneficial for both players, and ultimately, it will make Georgia’s quarterback room stronger. As the Bulldogs continue to compete for SEC titles and national championships, the relationship between Stockton and Puglisi will be a key factor in the team’s success.