NASCAR: 5 possible landing spots for Noah Gragson in 2023
By Randy Smith
Noah Gragson landing spots: No. 3 – Joe Gibbs Racing
Sticking with rides which complement Noah Gragson’s sponsorship, Joe Gibbs Racing comes to mind. In addition to Black Rifle Coffee Company, Gragson has sponsorship from Bass Pro Shops. His relationship with CEO Johnny Morris is well noted, with Gragson thanking him in post-race interviews.
That relationship is where Joe Gibbs Racing, specifically the #19 Toyota, becomes a possible landing spot for the 23-year-old. Their current driver, Martin Truex Jr., has hinted at retirement after the 2022 season. It is unknown when an official announcement will come on Truex’s future, but it is expected to come soon.
Truex’s retirement would leave Joe Gibbs Racing with a big decision to make in terms of who to put in the #19 Toyota. Gragson fits the bill with not only the aforementioned sponsorship ties, but with his connections to the Toyota Racing Development (TRD) camp as well.
Gragson scored two Truck Series wins driving for Kyle Busch Motorsports in 2017 and 2018. With Kyle Busch still competing for Joe Gibbs Racing, the team would have a good internal source who would know exactly what Gragson provides if they elect to go that route.
But drivers currently in the TRD camp are probably more likely replacements for Truex than an outsider. Xfinity Series driver Ty Gibbs has been the one most discussed, but grandfather and team owner Joe Gibbs has stated that the team is looking to keep in him in the Xfinity Series for 2023.
A ticket to one of the best Cup Series rides would be ideal for Gragson, but the possibility of serving as a placeholder until Gibbs is ready might not sit well. Gibbs and Gragson haven’t shown to be the best of friends on the race track either, but stranger signings have happened.