Pat McAfee’s name is making noise in NASCAR circles, tied to a potential new role with Ram Trucks as the brand prepares its 2026 return to the Craftsman Truck Series. His $60 million net worth and massive sports media presence add weight to growing speculation that he could become a key player in a bold reality-show concept aimed at finding future drivers. With Kaulig Racing set to field five Ram trucks, the plan could reshape how NASCAR teams market themselves and reach new fans.
Key Highlights
Pat McAfee linked to Ram Trucks’ 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series entry.
Ram planning document named McAfee, Cleetus McFarland, and UFC’s Dana White as potential participants.
Reality show concept mirrors 2005 “Roush Racing: Driver X,” aiming for late 2025 or early 2026 debut.
Kaulig Racing will field five trucks for Ram’s return, promising unique marketing strategies.
Driver Corey Heim responded after McAfee mentioned him, reaffirming loyalty to Toyota and current Tricon Garage team.
Ram’s Bold Entry and McAfee’s Role
Ram’s return to NASCAR after more than a decade has generated immediate buzz, fueled by reports of an entertainment-driven driver tryout series. A planning document obtained by Sports Business Journal included Pat McAfee alongside internet personality Cleetus McFarland and UFC figurehead Dana White. The proposal outlines a competition-based show, similar to the mid-2000s “Roush Racing: Driver X,” set to air in late 2025 or early 2026.
“Very possible.” – Dana White, on his involvement with Ram’s concept
Bringing McAfee into the fold could supercharge Ram’s visibility. His daily talk show attracts millions, blending sports with pop culture in a way few can match. That aligns closely with Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis’ goal to market “unlike anyone else,” giving the automaker a strong promotional edge before the first truck hits the track.
Kaulig Racing’s Expanding Effort
Kaulig Racing, confirmed to field five Ram trucks, provides the competitive muscle behind this venture. Team president Chris Rice made clear that the program will push boundaries.
“We’d do it different,” – Chris Rice.
.@PatMcAfeeShow brought up the @RamTrucks NASCAR program on his show last week, and that comes after he was included in a Ram planning document seen earlier this year by @SBJ, along with Cleetus McFarland and the Dana White-involved gong show.
➡️ @Stellantis declined comment. pic.twitter.com/C2RhCX5gnp
— Adam Stern (@A_S12) September 28, 2025
By combining McAfee’s media reach with Kaulig’s racing infrastructure, Ram gains a launchpad for immediate attention and sponsorship growth. The plan reflects NASCAR’s ongoing trend of blending sports entertainment with racing, a tactic designed to draw younger audiences and new advertisers.
Media Buzz and Driver Reactions
McAfee’s on-air mention of Corey Heim quickly rippled through the garage. Heim, the Craftsman Truck Series points leader with nine wins in 21 starts this season, responded with humor and clarity.
“More of a @Toyota Tundra guy, but appreciate the love @PatMcAfeeShow,” – Corey Heim.
The exchange underscored Heim’s loyalty to Toyota and his current Tricon Garage team. His impressive record—41 top-fives and 2,729 laps led across 66 career Truck races—has already positioned him for potential Cup Series opportunities. Heim added:
“I definitely feel like I’m ready to make Cup starts.”
“I’m really happy with the opportunities that Toyota and 23XI have given me the past couple of years.” – Corey Heim
Such moments highlight how quickly speculation spreads when high-profile figures like McAfee spotlight rising talent.
News in Brief: Pat McAfee Rumored to Join Ram’s Game-Changing NASCAR Driver Show
Pat McAfee’s $60 million net worth and massive audience have positioned him as a potential marketing force in Ram Trucks’ 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series return. A leaked planning document links McAfee, Cleetus McFarland, and UFC’s Dana White to a reality show concept aimed at finding new drivers, echoing the 2005 “Roush Racing: Driver X.” Kaulig Racing will field five trucks for Ram, adding competitive credibility. Corey Heim, leading the Truck Series for Toyota, dismissed speculation after McAfee mentioned him.
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