The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series was rocked Monday with news that Niece Motorsports has released Kaden Honeycutt, despite the young Texan’s playoff position and solid results this season. Fans quickly flooded social media with speculation and debate over the sudden split, possible replacement rides, and what Honeycutt’s long-term future now holds. As Connor Zilisch prepares to fill the seat this weekend at Watkins Glen, questions swirl over the timing, the decision, and what this means for Toyota’s next big talent.
Key Highlights
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Niece Motorsports releases Kaden Honeycutt despite a strong playoff points cushion and a full-time effort in 2025.
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Honeycutt signed a deal to race with another manufacturer in 2026, prompting an immediate release.
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Connor Zilisch to drive the No. 45 truck this weekend at Watkins Glen, Bayley Currey expected to finish the season in the ride.
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Fans speculate Honeycutt could land with Tricon/Toyota in 2026 or find temporary rides to complete the 2025 playoffs.
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Reactions show frustration over Toyota’s handling of prospects and uncertainty about Honeycutt’s next steps this year.
NASCAR Fan Reaction Sparks Rumor Mill
Minutes after the announcement, fans were already firing off opinions on social media, many wondering what the sudden move meant for both Honeycutt and Toyota’s driver pipeline.
“Either he replaces Heim or the #1 truck.” – NASCAR Fan Reaction
“Where’s Heim going? Legacy?” – NASCAR Fan Reaction
Speculation spread that Honeycutt’s next long-term stop could be Tricon Garage, a top Toyota Truck Series team. Others wondered if he might ultimately move into the Cup Series ranks, with rumors already swirling about potential openings.
“The rumor mill is saying the Spire 7 cup car. Which would make sense. Haley has stunk compared to Hocevar and McDowell.” – NASCAR Fan Reaction
But the news also triggered frustration among fans who believe Toyota risks losing one of its brightest young drivers due to poor support and funding decisions.
“Seriously? I can’t imagine Toyota would fumble their best prospect in 10 years.” – NASCAR Fan Reaction
Niece Motorsports Makes Immediate Change
Honeycutt’s release came with a brief team statement Monday morning. The organization confirmed that Connor Zilisch would pilot the No. 45 Chevrolet this weekend at Watkins Glen, with Bayley Currey taking over the seat for the remainder of the season. Crew chief Phil Gould and other personnel will remain unchanged. Niece cited Honeycutt’s signed deal with another manufacturer for 2026 as the reason for the early separation, saying the move allows the team to “begin building for next year.”
Honeycutt, 22, has been a full-time driver for Niece this season, collecting two top-5 finishes and nine top-10 results. Despite limited resources compared to powerhouse teams, he sits 9th in the Truck Series standings, 73 points above the playoff cut line. This would have been his first career Truck Series playoff berth.
Zilisch, meanwhile, steps in with a strong resume from the NASCAR Xfinity Series, where he has won five races this season in 21 starts. After Watkins Glen, Bayley Currey, who has one top-5 in nine part-time starts for Niece’s No. 44 entry, will take over full-time for the rest of 2025.
Kaden Honeycutt Responds, Fans Debate Playoff Impact
Honeycutt issued his own statement after the news broke, thanking Al Niece, Cody Efaw, Phil Gould, and sponsors for giving him his first full-time Truck Series shot. He made clear his focus remains on contending for wins and making the playoffs, though he didn’t reveal what rides he might find for the remainder of 2025.
“My plan is to continue to contend for race wins and position myself to make the playoffs this season. I look forward to sharing my plans for the remainder of the 2025 and beyond in the near future.” – Kaden Honeycutt
Fans were quick to point out the challenge Honeycutt faces finding a competitive ride in time to keep his playoff hopes alive. Christopher Bell is already confirmed to drive the No. 52 Halmar Friesen Racing entry at Watkins Glen, one possible temporary option, leaving uncertainty over where Honeycutt can race next.
“If he can get a ride this weekend, definitely, but they already announced Bell for that seat this weekend… It’ll suck if he has to forfeit his spot in the playoffs because of this.” – NASCAR Fan Reaction
Others speculated that the move to release Honeycutt early might signal a bigger manufacturer shuffle ahead of 2026.
“Not the best ride but I’m glad he’s getting out of Toyota. There was no way forward for him as long as 23XI prefers Herbst money.” – NASCAR Fan Reaction
“Makes a ton of sense for him to ride out the season with the 52, then just move over to Tricon next year.” – NASCAR Fan Reaction
News in Brief: NASCAR Fans Debate After Kaden Honeycutt’s Exit
Niece Motorsports has released Kaden Honeycutt effective immediately, citing his signed 2026 deal with another manufacturer. Despite sitting 9th in Truck Series points, Honeycutt will be replaced by Connor Zilisch at Watkins Glen, with Bayley Currey scheduled to finish the season in the No. 45 Chevrolet. Fans reacted strongly, speculating on Toyota’s long-term driver strategy, potential future rides for Honeycutt, and his playoff eligibility. Honeycutt thanked Niece for the opportunity, saying he still plans to compete for wins this year.
