As the NASCAR season heats up, so does the speculation surrounding driver movements for 2025. With key contracts expiring and potential retirements on the horizon, this year’s Silly Season could bring some major shake-ups across the Cup and Xfinity Series.
Martin Truex Jr.: Retirement or One More Year?
One of the biggest questions heading into 2025 is whether Martin Truex Jr. will continue racing or finally step away. The 2017 Cup Series champion has been noncommittal about his future, much like last year when he surprised many by returning for 2024. However, with Toyota and Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) needing clarity, a decision will likely come sooner rather than later.
If Truex does retire, JGR will have a major decision to make. The most obvious candidate for the No. 19 Toyota would be Ty Gibbs, but since he’s already in the No. 54, that leaves room for a potential newcomer. If JGR looks outside its current pipeline, could we see Sheldon Creed, Zane Smith, or even Chase Briscoe in the mix?
Harrison Burton: Searching for a New Opportunity?
After struggling to find consistent speed with Wood Brothers Racing, Harrison Burton could be on the move for 2025. His results haven’t lived up to expectations, and with Ford shifting focus to young talent like Riley Herbst and Zane Smith, Burton’s future with the team is uncertain.
If he loses his Cup ride, Burton could make a move to JR Motorsports or Joe Gibbs Racing in the Xfinity Series to reset his career. There have also been rumors that he could replace Hailie Deegan at AM Racing, should that seat become available.
Other Notable Free Agents & Potential Moves
Chase Briscoe (Stewart-Haas Racing)
With Stewart-Haas Racing’s long-term stability in question, Briscoe could be a hot commodity if he becomes available. He has shown flashes of brilliance, but with Ford shifting focus to teams like RFK and Penske, SHR’s future isn’t as clear. If Briscoe were to leave, he could land at 23XI Racing or even JGR if Truex retires.
Michael McDowell (Front Row Motorsports)
McDowell has been a consistent performer for Front Row, but with Ford investing in younger talent, Zane Smith’s return from Spire Motorsports could push McDowell out. If that happens, McDowell could move to another mid-tier team like Kaulig Racing or even SHR.
John Hunter Nemechek (Xfinity to Cup?)
Currently in JGR’s Xfinity program, Nemechek is eyeing a return to Cup after a strong 2024 season. If a spot opens at JGR (due to Truex retiring), he could be a natural fit. If not, could he land at 23XI Racing or even Front Row Motorsports?
The Big Picture: Who Moves Where?
With these uncertainties, here’s a possible outlook for some of the key drivers:
• Martin Truex Jr. retires → Joe Gibbs Racing signs John Hunter Nemechek
• Harrison Burton loses his ride → Moves to JRM or JGR’s Xfinity program
• Chase Briscoe leaves SHR → Joins JGR or 23XI Racing
• Michael McDowell moves on → Joins Kaulig Racing or another mid-tier team
• John Hunter Nemechek moves to Cup → Likely to JGR or 23XI Racing
As the 2024 season progresses, these decisions will become clearer. Until then, Silly Season is in full swing, and the rumors will only intensify.
Who do you think will make the biggest move for 2025?
