Gunner Stockton, a highly regarded quarterback from Rabun County High School in Tiger, Georgia, has made waves in the college football world with his recent commitment to the Missouri Tigers. This decision is particularly surprising given Stockton’s previous affiliations with other prominent programs.
Stockton’s journey began with a commitment to the Georgia Bulldogs, his home-state team. However, in November 2024, he decommitted from Georgia, choosing instead to commit to the Alabama Crimson Tide over other contenders like Tennessee and Michigan. citeturn0search2 This move raised eyebrows, as Stockton had deep ties to Georgia and had been a vocal supporter of the Bulldogs.
Despite the initial excitement surrounding his commitment to Alabama, Stockton’s tenure with the Crimson Tide was short-lived. Reports indicate that he later flipped his commitment to the Auburn Tigers, choosing them over Tennessee, Michigan, and other programs. citeturn0search1 This series of commitments and decommitments highlighted Stockton’s evolving priorities and the dynamic nature of college football recruiting.
In a further twist, Stockton has now pledged his allegiance to the Missouri Tigers. This latest development has left fans and analysts alike speculating about the factors influencing his decision. Missouri’s coaching staff, led by head coach Eli Drinkwitz, has been lauded for their ability to develop quarterbacks, which may have played a role in Stockton’s choice. Additionally, Missouri’s competitive stance in the SEC and their supportive fan base could have been significant draws for the young quarterback.
Stockton’s high school career at Rabun County High School was nothing short of impressive. As a freshman, he led his team to a region championship and a state playoff quarterfinals appearance, throwing for 2,917 yards and 34 touchdowns, with only six interceptions. He also rushed for 709 yards and 17 touchdowns, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities. His performance earned him the Football Player of the Year award from Now Habersham. Throughout his high school career, Stockton amassed significant passing and rushing yards, further solidifying his status as a top-tier recruit. citeturn0search12
At the collegiate level, Stockton’s journey has been marked by both challenges and growth. He began his career at Georgia, where he saw limited action behind established quarterbacks. His most notable appearance came in the 2024 SEC Championship Game, where he replaced an injured Carson Beck, throwing for 72 yards and an interception in a victory over Alabama. He also started in the 2025 Sugar Bowl against Notre Dame, throwing for 234 yards and a touchdown in a loss. citeturn0search12
Gunner Stockton’s commitment to Missouri adds a new chapter to his evolving collegiate career. His journey underscores the unpredictable nature of college football recruiting and the personal factors that influence such decisions. As he transitions to Missouri, both he and the Tigers will be eager to see what this next phase holds, with hopes that Stockton’s talent and leadership will contribute significantly to Missouri’s football aspirations in the coming seasons.
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