**TLDR** — The verdict is in, and it's not subtle. A commanding 46% of fans believe Joe Gibbs Racing should start grooming Denny Hamlin's replacement after 2027, signaling a clear appetite for generational change at the No. 11. Another 28% would green-light a succession plan only if Hamlin captures that elusive Cup title first, while just 21% want the veteran to keep rolling on his own terms. The comment section painted an even sharper picture. One reader argued JGR should line up a successor now "so when he decides to leave they have someone to take his place," while another insisted Hamlin should already be focused on building 23XI Racing full-time. A smaller faction pushed back, saying the decision belongs to Hamlin alone and he "shouldn't feel pressured to do anything." Whichever way Gibbs leans, fans are clearly bracing for a post-Hamlin era — and they want JGR ready.
Essentially Sports
May 15, 2026
Should Hamlin Make Way for Young JGR Driver After 2027?
46%
JGR Should Start Grooming His Replacement
156
28%
Yes, if He Wins the Championship, Why Not?
93
21%
No, He Can Keep Going On
72
4%
Other (Tell Us)
15
336 readers voted
We asked readers to weigh in — 10 shared their take. Here’s what they said:
Reader Reactions
10
ca***o**3**6@gmail.com
May 14, 2026 · 4:58 PM EDT
I think Denny should retire when he's ready, not what JGR or the fans think. I do think if he's not ready and JGR cut ties he'll be racing for 2311
42*3ge@gmail.com
May 14, 2026 · 7:08 PM EDT
Denny Hamlin is probably going to retire after 2027 or run part-time for his own team.
1j*n50@gmail.com
May 14, 2026 · 4:42 PM EDT
If he's winning and wants to keep going JGR should respect that. Of course he could always drive for himself too.
bm*ri*4@hotmail.com
May 14, 2026 · 4:32 PM EDT
It seems to me to be a good idea. Too much complaining about everything!
ke*s*0*u@gmail.com
May 14, 2026 · 7:33 PM EDT
He should have retired this year and take care of his own team 23XI.
ba***r**o**r@gmail.com
May 14, 2026 · 3:16 PM EDT
Who cares 😴 what JGR does or any other team owner does for that matter.
pe*****a****a*****t@gmail.com
May 14, 2026 · 3:03 PM EDT
Personally, I think he should do whatever it is he wants to do,he shouldn't feel pressured to do anything.
ed***a***s***0@gmail.com
May 14, 2026 · 1:57 PM EDT
Yes JGR should start grooming another person to replace Hamlin so when he decides to leave they have someone to take his place
kd**i*h**6@gmail.com
May 14, 2026 · 11:52 AM EDT
He should retire after this season. He is getting old. And give young drivers a chance To build a career
ww**f**a**c@msn.com
May 14, 2026 · 10:48 PM EDT
Just got away