Georgia’s Gunner Stockton gives back through NIL deal with Athens Area Humane Society

Before he begins his first year as Georgia’s starting quarterback, Gunner Stockton adopted a pet from the Athens Area Humane Society. Now, he has an NIL deal with the organization.

Stockton starred in a video posted to the humane society’s social media pages this week. It shows him interacting with different animals – including both dogs and cats – at the shelter as he encourages viewers to support AAHS.

Additionally, the humane society said Stockton adopted “his own best friend” a few months ago. Now, he’s working with the shelter as a spokesperson, joining a trend of NIL deals focused on giving back.

“We’re so excited to cheer Gunner on this football season, and we’re even more excited to have him as part of our AAHS family,” the post read. “In this short video, Gunner is helping us share what makes the Athens Area Humane Society so special: rescuing, protecting, and uniting pets with loving homes. … Whether you’re a Dawgs fan, an animal lover, or both, there’s no better time to find your new MVP (Most Valuable Pet) right here at AAHS!”

Stockton, who has an $823,000 On3 NIL Valuation, is adding to his NIL portfolio as he gets ready for his first full season as Georgia’s starting quarterback. Friday, he also announced a deal with HeyDude shoes as part of his portfolio, and previously posted an with PXG.

Gunner Stockton preparing for Year 1 as starter

After spending the last two years behind Carson Beck on the depth chart, Gunner Stockton will now get his shot as Georgia’s starter in 2025. He took over for Beck in last year’s SEC Championship against Texas – helping UGA hold on for the win – and started the College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup against Notre Dame.

Kirby Smart had high praise for Stockton at SEC Media Days last month. He wasn’t talking about on-field achievements, though. Smart said Stockton is emerging as a leader in the locker room, as well.

“Gunner is a kid that leads from the front,” Smart said in his opening statement. “Gunner is a winner. He comes from an athletic family background, his dad played at Georgia Southern, and he’s the kind of kid you want at the front of the line, and he leads from the front.

“So I appreciate what Gunner does. He’s going to be a big part of our program this year in leadership and doing that with the offensive players. He’s already begun to do that in his leadership groups that he runs right now.”