Could Erik Jones End Up in the No. 48 Car at Hendrick After Jimmie Johnson’s Retirement?

In a major development for the 2021 season, Joe Gibbs Racing announced on Thursday that it will not renew the contract of Erik Jones.

The 24-year-old Jones has been with the outfit since 2018. He drives the No. 20 car for Joe Gibbs Racing and has six more races to go this season.

Jones was already nearing the end of his contract as the 2020 season neared a close. He is currently in the midst of a one-year contract.

Joe Gibbs Racing’s decision of terminating Jones’ contract probably gained more impetus after Leavine Family Racing announced that they were being sold, leaving Christopher Bell without a team next year.

Erik Jones – a contender to replace Jimmie Johnson in the No. 48

The rumor mill is running in overtime as people speculate Erik Jones’ destination in 2021. There is another burning question in NASCAR these days that will now be even more largely associated with that of Jones.

Who will drive the No. 48 Chevrolet Camaro at Hendrick Motorsports?

NASCAR legend Jimmie Johnson who currently drives the car is retiring from full-time racing at the end of the season.

Bell was considered a strong contender for the role at Hendrick Motorsports as well.

But if reports are to be believed, Bell will replace Erik Jones at Joe Gibbs Racing in the No. 20 car and an announcement will soon follow.

This leaves Hendrick with an opportunity to take a further look at Jones as a possible replacement for Johnson.

Big shoes to fill at Hendrick Motorsports

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It is believed that Hendrick could also be content with a three-driver line-up for next season, with either William Byron or Alex Bowman taking Johnson’s car.

But if they decide to continue to stick with fielding four drivers, Jones could be a viable option for them.

He would not be the face of the team as Chase Elliott is expected to take that role. However, Johnson will be leaving a pair of huge shoes for Jones to fill, a notion that may prove overwhelming for the 24-year-old.

But he could be part of a young and promising team and on equal footing with his teammates, with an opportunity to shine brightly at Hendrick.

ALSO READ- NASCAR: Spire Motorsports to Acquire Leavine Family Racing

SOURCE- Bob Pockrass- Twitter