BREAKING: No. 1 Top-Rated 5-Star Quarterback Gunner Stockton Announces Shocking Flip to Alabama for Class of 2026

BREAKING: No. 1 Top-Rated 5-Star Quarterback Gunner Stockton Announces Shocking Flip to Alabama for Class of 2026

 

In a bombshell move that’s already sending shockwaves across the college football world, Gunner Stockton, the consensus No. 1 overall prospect and top-rated 5-star quarterback in the Class of 2026, has officially flipped his commitment to the University of Alabama. Originally committed to Georgia since his sophomore year, Stockton’s decision to switch to the Crimson Tide reshapes the entire recruiting landscape and cements Alabama’s resurgence under head coach Kalen DeBoer.

 

The Announcement

 

Stockton made the announcement on Monday evening via a live stream on social media, flanked by his family, high school coach, and several teammates at Rabun County High School in Tiger, Georgia. Dressed in a crimson suit and tie with an Alabama cap placed firmly on his head, Stockton simply stated:

 

> “After long talks with my family and a lot of prayer, I’ve decided to decommit from Georgia and flip my commitment to the University of Alabama. Roll Tide.”

 

 

 

The crowd erupted with applause, while fans online were instantly sent into a frenzy. Stockton, a generational talent with a rocket arm and elite mobility, becomes the crown jewel of Alabama’s 2026 class, which now jumps to No. 1 in the 247Sports Composite Team Rankings following his commitment.

 

Why the Flip?

 

The news comes as a stunner to many in the recruiting world. Stockton had been a vocal Georgia lean and was even seen as a potential early enrollee for the Bulldogs. But sources close to the recruitment indicate that several factors contributed to the change of heart:

 

Alabama’s QB Development Track Record: From Jalen Hurts and Tua Tagovailoa to Bryce Young, Alabama’s ability to mold quarterbacks into NFL-ready stars remains unparalleled. Stockton reportedly had a “deeply positive connection” with Tide offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan and appreciated the tailored vision Alabama laid out for his development.

 

Kalen DeBoer’s Impact: The new Alabama head coach has proven himself as one of the best offensive minds in the game, especially in the development of quarterbacks. His recent success with Michael Penix Jr. at Washington helped sway Stockton, who reportedly said DeBoer “sees the game the same way I do.”

 

Georgia’s Crowded QB Room: Sources suggest that uncertainty over the depth chart at Georgia and the commitment of another 2026 quarterback may have played a role. Stockton wants to compete, but also seeks a clear development path to the starting job.

 

 

A Huge Boost for Alabama

 

Stockton’s commitment makes Alabama’s 2026 class historically good. He joins an already loaded group that includes 5-star wide receiver Brandon Bennett, elite offensive tackle Zachary Faulk, and top-100 running back Terrance Steele. Stockton’s arrival also raises the likelihood that more top-tier offensive recruits will follow.

 

Recruiting expert Steve Wiltfong said:

 

> “This is the kind of flip that tilts the power balance in college football. Gunner Stockton is the type of quarterback that makes Alabama a national title contender the moment he steps on campus.”

 

 

 

Reaction Across the Country

 

The response from the college football world has been swift and emotional. Georgia fans are understandably heartbroken, having seen their longtime quarterback commit flip to their SEC arch-rival. Meanwhile, Alabama fans are celebrating what many are calling the “Gunner Boom.”

 

Notably, former Alabama quarterback Bryce Young tweeted,

 

> “That Bama QB legacy continues. Gunner’s got next.”

 

 

 

ESPN analyst and former coach Dan Mullen weighed in, saying:

 

> “Gunner Stockton flipping to Alabama is the single most significant recruiting move of the 2026 cycle so far. He has the leadership, talent, and football IQ to start as a freshman.”

 

 

 

What’s Next?

 

With nearly a year and a half until National Signing Day 2026, Alabama will need to keep fending off programs eager to sway Stockton again. But for now, the message from Gunner Stockton is clear — he’s all in with Alabama.

 

His high school coach, Jaybo Shaw, offered praise for the quarterback’s maturity:

 

> “Gunner’s not just making a decision based on hype. He wants to be developed, to compete, and to win at the highest level. Alabama gives him all of that.”

 

 

 

Final Thoughts

 

Gunner Stockton’s flip is more than just a recruiting headline — it’s a seismic shift in the SEC arms race. As college football continues to evolve with NIL, the transfer portal, and shifting power dynamics, Stockton’s decision is proof that Alabama remains the standard in college football.

 

For Georgia, the loss stings — but it may also prompt a more aggressive push for another elite signal-caller in the 2026 class. For Alabama, it’s a celebration and a reminder that the Tide, under Kalen DeBoer, aren’t going anywhere.

 

Stay tuned. The 2026 recruiting cycle just got a lot more interesting.