Georgia’s top offensive playmakers praise Gunner Stockton’s growth this spring, highlighting his leadership, accuracy, and ability to elevate the offense.
As spring practices unfold across college football, few programs are as closely watched as the University of Georgia, particularly when it comes to the development of their next starting quarterback. This spring, all eyes have been on Gunner Stockton, the former five-star recruit, as he works to solidify his position and lead the Bulldogs’ offense into the 2025 season. While Georgia has been a dominant force in college football in recent years, much of their success has been built on a strong defense and a run-heavy offense. However, with the emergence of Stockton, the Bulldogs are hoping to find a more balanced attack that can compete at the highest level, especially in the SEC, where high-powered offenses are becoming more common.
What makes Stockton’s development so intriguing is not just his high school pedigree or the pressure of succeeding in the footsteps of great quarterbacks like Stetson Bennett, but the reaction of those around him — particularly Georgia’s top offensive playmakers. As spring practice has progressed, the reports from players have been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting Stockton’s leadership, accuracy, and ability to elevate the entire offense. His potential is becoming increasingly clear, and his teammates have made it known that they are excited to play with him under center.
The Buzz Around Gunner Stockton: The Early Signs of Growth
Before we delve into the feedback from Georgia’s offensive players, it’s important to take a step back and assess Stockton’s journey leading up to this spring. After being highly recruited out of high school, Stockton arrived at Georgia as one of the most coveted quarterbacks in the nation. His combination of size, mobility, and arm strength made him an exciting prospect, and many believed he could become the face of the Bulldogs’ offense for years to come. However, the transition to college football is never easy, and Stockton’s first year saw him primarily as a backup behind the more experienced Stetson Bennett.
Despite limited playing time, Stockton had the opportunity to learn from one of the best quarterbacks in Georgia history, and that experience paid off in this spring’s practices. The Bulldogs’ coaching staff has emphasized a more open competition at the quarterback position this spring, with Stockton emerging as one of the leading contenders. His development has been marked by significant improvement in key areas of his game, and Georgia’s offensive playmakers are already noticing the changes.
The Playmakers’ Perspective: What They’ve Seen from Stockton
Kendall Milton: Running Back and Key Offensive Weapon
One of the most critical players in Georgia’s offense this season is running back Kendall Milton. As one of the top tailbacks in the SEC, Milton is expected to shoulder a heavy load for the Bulldogs, particularly in their running game. However, as any great running back will tell you, the success of the ground game often depends on the play of the quarterback.
Milton has been one of the players most impressed by Stockton’s development this spring. In a recent interview, Milton spoke about how Stockton’s leadership on the field has stood out to him. “What I’ve seen from Gunner is impressive,” Milton said. “He’s always been a great talent, but what’s really come through this spring is his leadership. He’s not just making the throws; he’s commanding the huddle, getting everyone lined up, and making sure we’re all on the same page. That’s something you really look for in a quarterback, and he’s really stepped up in that role.”
Milton also praised Stockton’s ability to make plays outside the pocket. As a running back, the ability of the quarterback to extend plays can make all the difference in the world. “Gunner’s ability to move around and keep plays alive with his legs opens things up for us,” Milton continued. “When he keeps a play alive, it gives us a chance to break off a big run, or he can turn a broken play into a touchdown. His ability to make things happen when the pocket breaks down is huge for our offense.”
Milton’s comments highlight the confidence that Stockton is building among his teammates. When a top running back like Milton speaks highly of a quarterback, it’s a good indication that the young signal-caller is gaining trust within the locker room.
Brock Bowers: Tight End and All-SEC Talent
Another key figure in Georgia’s offense is tight end Brock Bowers, who has emerged as one of the most dynamic playmakers in college football. Bowers has been a major part of the Bulldogs’ offensive success in recent years, and with Stockton taking over the reins at quarterback, Bowers will be a crucial piece of the passing game moving forward.
Bowers, who is known for his exceptional ability to catch passes in traffic and make plays down the field, has been particularly impressed by Stockton’s accuracy and touch on his throws. “I’ve seen a big improvement in Gunner’s ability to place the ball exactly where it needs to be,” Bowers said. “As a tight end, we’re often asked to run routes in tight spaces, and you need a quarterback who can get you the ball in those situations. Gunner’s accuracy has really been a big thing this spring, and it’s been fun to see how he’s grown in that area.”
Bowers also mentioned Stockton’s command of the offense and his ability to process information quickly. “The way he reads the defense and makes quick decisions is impressive for a guy who hasn’t had a ton of game experience yet,” Bowers added. “He’s always calm, always in control, and that’s something that helps everyone around him play better. You can tell that he’s starting to feel more comfortable out there, and that’s a great sign for our offense.”
The chemistry between Stockton and Bowers is something that could pay huge dividends for Georgia this season. Bowers is a proven playmaker, and if Stockton can continue to improve his accuracy and decision-making, the two could form one of the most dangerous quarterback-tight end duos in college football.
Ladd McConkey: Wide Receiver and Rising Star
Wide receiver Ladd McConkey, who has been one of Georgia’s most consistent receiving threats in recent years, has also been vocal about his growing confidence in Stockton’s abilities. McConkey, who has developed a strong rapport with his quarterbacks during his time at Georgia, sees a different level of potential with Stockton under center.
“I’m really excited about what Gunner brings to the table,” McConkey said. “He’s a guy who can make all the throws, whether it’s deep, short, or intermediate. What really stands out to me is how he’s been able to connect with us in the passing game. He’s got a great feel for timing and placement, and that’s something that’s only going to get better as we continue to work together.”
McConkey, like Bowers, emphasized Stockton’s ability to stay calm under pressure. “You can see that Gunner has the poise of a veteran,” McConkey added. “He never seems rattled, even when things get tense. That’s a big thing for a quarterback, especially in the SEC. You need to be able to keep your cool when the defense is bringing the heat, and Gunner does that really well.”
McConkey also praised Stockton’s leadership qualities, noting that the quarterback has quickly earned the respect of the entire offense. “Leadership is so important at the quarterback position, and Gunner has really stepped up in that area,” McConkey explained. “He’s always talking to guys, giving encouragement, and making sure everyone is focused. He’s the kind of guy you want leading your team.”
The Offensive Line: A Pillar of Support for Stockton
Of course, no quarterback can succeed without a strong offensive line, and Georgia’s front five has been instrumental in providing Stockton with the protection and time he needs to make plays. While the offensive line has not been as vocal as some of the skill players, their support for Stockton has been evident. With an offensive line that is expected to be one of the best in the SEC, Stockton will have the necessary protection to operate efficiently in the pocket.
Looking Ahead: Stockton’s Potential to Lead Georgia to Glory
As the spring practices continue, Gunner Stockton’s growth as a leader and quarterback is becoming one of the biggest storylines in college football. The positive feedback from Georgia’s top offensive playmakers — from Kendall Milton to Brock Bowers to Ladd McConkey — is a clear indication that Stockton has earned the trust of his teammates and has the tools necessary to succeed.
Georgia’s offensive potential in 2025 hinges on Stockton’s development, and if he can continue to build on the progress he’s shown this spring, the Bulldogs could be in line for another strong campaign. With the leadership and playmaking ability of Stockton, combined with the talent around him, Georgia’s offense could take a major step forward this season, balancing the run game with an explosive passing attack.
In the coming months, all eyes will be on Stockton as he aims to lead Georgia to the promised land. If he continues to impress his teammates and the coaching staff, the Bulldogs could be primed for another national championship run. And with the confidence of his top offensive playmakers behind him, Gunner Stockton is on track to become one of the next great quarterbacks in college football.
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