NASCAR: The Biggest Questions Facing Every Driver In 2017

Oct 23, 2016; Talladega, AL, USA; NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Kyle Larson (42) and Kurt Busch (41) and Joey Logano (22) and Martin Truex Jr. (78) race four wide during the Alabama 500 at Talladega Superspeedway. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 11, 2016; Avondale, AZ, USA; Sprint Cup Series driver Paul Menard (27) during practice for the Can-Am 500 at Phoenix International Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

Paul Menard

Menard falls in the contract-year category this season since his contract with RCR is up following the 2017 season. The only difference is that Menard generally runs on a year-to-year deal which makes 2017 no different than 2016.

The only difference this season is that Ty Dillon is lurking in the background.

Sure, Dillon is in the No. 13 machine this season but that car is receiving extra support from RCR. If Dillon has a strong season in the No. 13 machine and Menard struggles, wouldn’t it makes sense for RCR to bring Dillon in and push Menard out? It seems like having Dillon on the team instead of funding a fourth car is a better move for business.

So the only question facing Menard this season is whether or not he can perform well enough not to lose his ride to Dillon.

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