The 2021 Daytona 500 was the first edition in nearly two decades to not witness Jimmie Johnson driving his iconic No.48 car. A legendary figure who has cultivated a solid reputation, very few came close to defeating him during his prime form.

Hence, the younger guns have to step up and show that they are equal to similarly creating their own legacy. But, former Cup champion Matt Kenseth outlined why there would not be ‘another Jimmie Johnson’ in the sport.

Kenseth stated, “I don’t think there will ever be another one. Anybody that’s done what he’s done, you know. Jimmie Johnson, I kind of put him in the same league kind of as Tom Brady, especially for what he’s done in this modern day and age.”

Jimmie Johnson is a ‘unique guy’, added Matt Kenseth in his response

“So I don’t know if there will be another one, he’s a unique guy. I’d say there are a lot of records that will never get broken again. Winning whatever it was five in a row, won seven total, and all that stuff.”

Johnson boasts a record–equaling tally of seven Cup Series titles and finds himself sixth on the all-time division race wins list. But Kenseth believes one name shows promise and could become the next biggest superstar in the sport.

“Obviously I think Chase Elliott is really, really good. It’s pretty neat that he’s following his dad’s footsteps. Young guy, can get it done on and off the racetrack, so I think Chase has a real bright future,” concluded Kenseth on the subject.

Chase Elliott recorded his best-ever finish of second in the Daytona 500

Starting 11th on the grid, the Hendrick Motorsports No.9 really had to work his way through quality rival drivers in the first stage. With the lead constantly changing hands, Elliott made sure he was near the Top 5 positions.

On the final lap following the crash, Elliott crossed the finish line in front of the rest of the pack. But considering the caution had come out on the last lap and McDowell was leading the race, officials adjudged him the winner of the Daytona 500.

Nevertheless, the display simply impressed his team, and the fans present at the circuit. No doubt Jimmie Johnson, who would have been following the race, would have been proud of his former teammate’s performance.

MORE – “What We Want to See” – Denny Hamlin Happy With Bubba Wallace’s ‘Great Job’ in NASCAR Daytona 500