Here’s a bold prediction that might just shake up the NASCAR world: Tyler Reddick, despite a heartbreaking playoff exit, could be the dark horse to watch next season. But here’s where it gets controversial—former crew chief Steve Letarte is doubling down on this claim, even as Reddick’s 2023 campaign ended in disappointment. With the Round of 8 set and Denny Hamlin leading by a slim 8-point margin, followed by Ryan Blaney, Kyle Larson, William Byron, Christopher Bell, Chase Elliott, Chase Briscoe, and Joey Logano, Letarte’s focus has already shifted to 2024. And he’s not alone in thinking Reddick could bounce back in a big way.
Letarte’s confidence in Reddick isn’t just wishful thinking—it’s rooted in what he calls the No. 45 driver’s ‘raw firepower.’ Despite the chaos surrounding 23XI Racing, from an ongoing antitrust lawsuit to Reddick’s personal struggles, including a health scare involving his four-month-old son, Letarte sees something extraordinary in Reddick’s natural talent behind the wheel. ‘He does things that are very, very natural,’ Letarte remarked, clearly impressed by Reddick’s instincts on the track.
But here’s the part most people miss: Letarte is genuinely stunned that Reddick hasn’t secured a single win this season. ‘I’m shocked that he’s winless this year,’ he admitted. ‘If I had to pick one driver who was eliminated this year to make the Round of 8 next season, Reddick would be my obvious choice.’ It’s a bold statement, especially considering Reddick’s 2024 run to the Championship 4, where he finished fourth—a stark contrast to this year’s second-round exit.
And this is where it gets even more intriguing. Letarte believes Reddick’s personal and professional challenges may have distracted him this season, but even with those factors, he’s baffled by the lack of wins for last year’s regular-season champion. It’s a head-scratcher, to say the least, and it raises a thought-provoking question: Could Reddick’s 2023 struggles be a temporary setback rather than a long-term trend?
Todd Gordon, while agreeing with Letarte on Reddick’s potential, adds another name to the mix: Ross Chastain. Gordon points to Trackhouse Racing’s relentless drive for success, especially with Connor Zilisch—a 10-time Xfinity Series winner this year—set to make his full-time Cup debut in 2024. It’s a reminder that next season could be a wide-open battle for dominance.
So, here’s the big question for you: Is Steve Letarte onto something with his Tyler Reddick prediction, or is he overlooking the challenges that could keep Reddick from rebounding? And what about Ross Chastain—could he be the sleeper pick to watch? Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and let’s spark a debate that could shape the narrative for next season!
