What's Next For Ryan Newman?

Posted by Jeremy Dunn Jun 6, 2008

The 2008 season could not have began any sweeter for Ryan Newman and Roger Penske as they captured the Daytona 500. It has been sour ever since, as the 12 team has encountered one too many mechanical malfunctions in the first thirteen races.

Newman is at the end of his contract with Penske, who he has driven for since 2000. However, with all of the fuss regarding Tony Stewart and his possible availability, NASCAR's second top free agent has flew under the radar. The quiet yet candid driver is a hot commodity in the NASCAR garage. Not only does he boast a Daytona 500 trophy, but he has 12 additional wins, all which occurred in a four-year span.

In 2005, Newman was at the end of his contract, and was on Jack Roush's radar to replace Mark Martin in the famed number 6 Ford, but Newman remained loyal to Penske, re-signing for another three years. However, Alltel, Newman's only primary sponsor since he was in the ARCA Series in 2000, will merge with Verizon Wireless. Eventually, the Alltel brand will be phased out, which means that there will be no more blue and white Alltel Dodge circling the tracks.

As a top free agent, Newman's future is probably not at Penske. There are one too many question marks. Richard Childress Racing has a ride with a full-time sponsor. Sure, the team is not locked into the all-important top 35, but Newman is renowned for his qualifying prowess. Furthermore, somehow, that 33 team will be locked in. Money can buy points. The 20 ride could be vacant if Tony Stewart leaves his Joe Gibbs Racing team. Over the next couple of months, the blurry silly season picture will become clearer. Newman and Stewart will have the greatest impact on how silly season plays out.