[autotag]Kaulig Racing[/autotag] likely needs to overhaul its NASCAR Xfinity Series lineup due to Daniel Hemric’s promotion and Chandler Smith’s expected departure to Joe Gibbs Racing in 2024. As of now, A.J. Allmendinger is likely to join the Xfinity Series program but what about the other rides? Here are three realistic candidates for a possible seat.
[autotag]Derek Kraus[/autotag] should be the top option as Kaulig Racing loves what he brings to the program. Kraus has competed in seven races with the organization for three top-10 finishes and a 13.7 average finishing position. The 22-year-old driver has shown promise in his select starts and would be in a good position with Allmendinger possibly mentoring him throughout his first full-time season.
[autotag]Layne Riggs[/autotag] would also be a good choice for Kaulig Racing in 2024. Riggs has competed in two races with the organization during the 2023 Xfinity Series playoffs and has a best finish of 10th place at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The 21-year-old has impressed in his NASCAR starts since the beginning of the 2022 season and would be worthy of an opportunity.
After leading the first laps of his Xfinity Series career, Derek Kraus wins Stage 2 at Homestead. Kraus already has three top-10s in his first six Xfinity starts.
— Jeff Gluck (@jeff_gluck) October 21, 2023
Finally, [autotag]Jeffrey Earnhardt[/autotag] would be a quality option and likely represent the best full-time equipment in his career. Earnhardt previously earned a second-place finish at Talladega Superspeedway in 2022 with Richard Childress Racing so he can compete if given the car. The 34-year-old driver could also bring sponsorship, which would help out the program.
Any driver out of the trio of Kraus, Riggs, and Earnhardt would be a good option for Kaulig Racing in 2024. Kraus likely serves as the most reasonable option as he has the most recent experience with the organization; however, Riggs and Earnhardt would be good too. Overall, Kaulig Racing should have options available and it will make for an interesting outcome.
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