Athlon Sports recently released an article that gathered the insights of several anonymous SEC coaches regarding the Georgia Bulldogs’ preparations for the 2026 season. The piece offers a rare glimpse into the internal assessments of league insiders as the team looks to build on its recent successes.
Voices from the SEC
Among the respondents, the conversation consistently circled around Gunner Stockton, the quarterback who is set to retake the starting role after an uneven first season in Athens. Coaches highlighted his growth and the expectations placed on him to lead the offense.
Stockton’s numbers from the previous campaign illustrate a 69.7% pass‑completion rate, 2,894 yards through the air and 24 touchdown throws. In addition, he contributed 462 rushing yards and ten scores on the ground, marking him as the team’s leading rusher in touchdowns.
Coaches also pointed to a perceived decline in depth compared with prior years, noting that several backup players have entered the transfer portal, which could limit the Bulldogs’ options at key positions.
Nevertheless, the roster will retain 17 starters, including three athletes who transferred from other programs, adding both experience and new talent to the mix as the team aims to sustain its competitive edge.
Smart’s Legacy and Playoff Reflection
Head coach Kirby Smart enters his eleventh season with a career record of 117‑21 and two national championships to his name. While the Bulldogs captured consecutive SEC titles, they fell in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals, a result that has sparked discussion about the program’s next steps.