Key Moves and New Faces
The 2027 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series is entering a pivotal off‑season as teams finalize driver line‑ups for the upcoming campaign. While the schedule remains unchanged, the roster is being reshaped by a series of promotions, demotions and new signings that have already begun to surface.
Among the most talked‑about moves, Sammy Smith finds himself a free agent after parting ways with JR Motorsports, where he drove the No. 8 in 2026. Rumors link him to a seat at Haas Factory Team, a prospect that could reshape the team’s driver composition.
At JR Motorsports, Carson Kvapil will shift from the No. 1 to the No. 8, a change that reflects the team’s strategic realignment. The No. 1 seat, once occupied by Kvapil, is now open, creating a vacancy that several prospects are eyeing.
Austin Green, who spent the previous year with Peterson Racing Group in the No. 87, is also listed as a free agent, adding another name to the pool of drivers seeking new opportunities.
Open seats are not limited to JR Motorsports. The No. 26 entry at Sam Hunt Racing, previously held by Dean Thompson, remains unfilled, while Peterson Racing Group is rumored to be preparing a second full‑time entry, though the team has not confirmed the plan.
New faces are also entering the mix. Carson Brown is slated to join Richard Childress Racing at the No. 2, bringing his ARCA and OAP experience to a full‑time schedule. Corey Day has been announced at Hendrick Motorsports, taking the No. 17, while William Sawalich will drive for Joe Gibbs Racing in the No. 18. Brandon Jones is set to return to Joe Gibbs Racing at the No. 20, and Chandler Smith will be promoted to the No. 21 at Richard Childress Racing after a stint in the No. 38.
Daniel Dye has been confirmed as the full‑time driver for Jordan Anderson Racing in the No. 32, and Taylor Gray will also represent Joe Gibbs Racing in the No. 54. Lee Pulliam is slated to pilot the No. 87 for Peterson Racing Group, having previously competed part‑time in Late Model and OAP events. Dean Thompson, meanwhile, is expected to join Haas Factory Team, potentially marking the team’s expansion into an unconfirmed seat.
The evolving roster underscores the fluid nature of the series, with teams expected to make further adjustments throughout the remainder of 2026 and the off‑season. As plans solidify, the 2027 lineup promises a blend of veteran presence and fresh talent, setting the stage for a competitive year.