NASCAR insider speculates on Denny Hamlin replacement at Joe Gibbs Racing

Earlier this summer, Denny Hamlin agreed to a contract extension with Joe Gibbs Racing. He’ll continue to pilot the No. 11 Toyota for his longtime team, with at least two more seasons after 2025 coming up.

Beyond that? It’s likely Hamlin will retire, or race part-time with his 23XI Racing team, although nothing is official. Where does that leave the No. 11 team at JGR? Jordan Bianchi of The Athletic is wondering the same thing, as he evaluated what he’s hearing regarding NASCAR’s free agency in the Cup Series.

“Even though Denny Hamlin was on an expiring contract, it was no shock that Hamlin and Joe Gibbs Racing announced last month a contract extension that keeps him with the only team he’s ever known through the 2027 season,” Bianchi wrote. “So why are Hamlin and JGR on this list? Because Hamlin made it clear he expects this to be his final contract, and the possibility he retires in two years is very real. Thus begins the process for JGR to begin identifying Hamlin’s eventual replacement and then implementing that succession plan.”

In trying to find potential options, Bianchi noted that Toyota prospect Brent Crews could see his timeline line up with Hamlin’s contract. However, there should be a bevy of options, as the ride will be a coveted one when it becomes available.

“The good news for JGR is that it has ample runway and doesn’t need to be in a rush,” Bianchi added. “It also helps that Toyota has several promising young drivers in its pipeline — most notably Brent Crews — should it choose to go this route.

“JGR is also an elite organization, making it a destination spot for any talented driver who wants to contend for championships. And as noted above, several big-name drivers have contracts coming up for renewal over the next couple of years. Inside the garage, the talk is already ramping up over who may be driving the No. 11 Toyota in 2028.”

In his Cup Series career, Hamlin has won 58 races for JGR, including three Daytona 500 victories. The one area he’s fallen short is in his chase for a championship, but some added time with the No. 11 team might help him get there.

Whoever does replace him in the No. 11 will have some giant shoes to fill. Let the speculation run wild, because until it’s official, it’s anyone’s guess who will follow Denny Hamlin at Joe Gibbs Racing.