Tony Stewart’s NASCAR return has reignited excitement across motorsports as he prepares for his first competitive NASCAR race in a decade, piloting the No. 25 truck for Kaulig Racing at Daytona International Speedway next month. This major comeback spotlights not only Stewart but also ramps up speculation about which other drivers could join RAM and Kaulig’s entry in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in 2026.
Tony Stewart’s Comeback Ignites the Conversation
In 2026, NASCAR is set to see significant changes, including the revival of The Chase and increased horsepower for the Next Gen cars. However, the buzz around Tony Stewart’s decision to race again in the Truck Series at Daytona has pushed the RAM and Kaulig Racing partnership into the spotlight, making it one of the most intriguing storylines heading into the year. With Stewart, often called “Smoke,” taking the wheel after his long NASCAR hiatus, there’s renewed curiosity about which other notable racing personalities could follow his lead and join the lineup for RAM and Kaulig Racing.
Carl Edwards: A Potential Storybook Return
Carl Edwards, a former NASCAR Cup Series standout, left the sport in 2016 after a high-profile departure that paralleled Stewart’s own exit in 2024. While it once appeared unlikely fans would ever see Edwards involved in NASCAR again, his recent work as a commentator for Amazon Prime Video’s Cup Series coverage in the summer seemed to reignite his passion for the sport. Although considered a long shot, a return to the Truck Series—the platform that made Edwards a household name—would be a major story for 2026.
Kasey Kahne: Resurgence Suggests More Comebacks Possible
Kasey Kahne stepped away from NASCAR not long after Edwards, but recently surprised fans with a comeback in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series last season at Rockingham Speedway for Richard Childress Racing. Displaying strong performance and competitive spirit, Kahne was even in contention for a win before ultimately finishing fourteenth. His deep history with Dodge, the brand from which RAM was spun off, further makes him a perfect fit for a 2026 RAM and Kaulig Racing entry, and his competing again would generate significant excitement among fans and the racing community.
Jeremy Mayfield: The Dark Horse Choice
Jeremy Mayfield is perhaps the most unlikely candidate for a seat with RAM and Kaulig Racing. Legal disputes and years away from the sport create obvious hurdles, but the idea of Mayfield returning would, nonetheless, capture significant attention. His history with Dodge and the narrative of a full-circle comeback are elements that would surely draw new eyes to NASCAR’s Truck Series, even if this scenario remains a fantasy for now.
Bobby Dale Earnhardt: Adding Star Power Through NASCAR Heritage
Bobby Dale Earnhardt, the grandson of NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt, adds a layer of family legacy and name recognition that would spark media attention for Kaulig Racing. Although currently racing full time in the ARCA Menards Series with Chevrolet in 2026, there may be contractual barriers to his participation. Even so, the prospect of Earnhardt’s involvement in RAM’s truck program could generate a new wave of fan interest, especially if drawing big headlines becomes a focus for the team.
Garrett “Cleetus McFarland” Mitchell: Engaging a New Generation
Garrett Mitchell, better known online as Cleetus McFarland, has quickly made a name for himself in motorsports, especially after his well-publicized and relatively successful ARCA starts last season. His significant influence among fans and his online following offer a unique marketing opportunity for Kaulig Racing. Positioned with a capable team and quality equipment, Mitchell could surprise the field with his raw talent, simultaneously tapping into a younger and broader audience for the Truck Series. A potential tribute to the late Greg Biffle, his racing mentor, with a classic No. 50 truck design could further build his NASCAR narrative.
The Broader Impact of Tony Stewart’s NASCAR Return
Tony Stewart’s highly anticipated return is much more than a personal comeback; it serves as a catalyst that opens doors for returning legends, crossover stars, and unexpected talents in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. The RAM and Kaulig Racing partnership, starring Stewart, brings new energy and storytelling potential to the series, inviting speculation about possible appearances from names like Jeremy Mayfield, Carl Edwards, Kasey Kahne, Bobby Dale Earnhardt, and Garrett Mitchell. As the 2026 season approaches, the motorsports world is watching closely to see how Stewart’s NASCAR return could inspire further shakeups and high-profile racing moments across the sport.
