NASCAR Power Rankings: Tyler Reddick Surges, Chase Elliott Moves to Top

Two drivers are climbing up the rankings and someone new has taken over the top spot ahead of Atlanta.

Feb. 18, 2026 at 9:23pm

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Tyler Reddick, the 23XI Racing driver, has surged back into the NASCAR power rankings after winning the Daytona 500. Meanwhile, Chase Elliott of Hendrick Motorsports has moved to the top spot in the rankings ahead of the race at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

Why it matters

The NASCAR power rankings provide a snapshot of the top drivers and teams heading into each race, giving fans and analysts a sense of who the favorites are and how the competitive landscape is shifting. Reddick's rise and Elliott's ascension to the top spot are significant developments that will shape the narrative and expectations going into the Atlanta race.

The details

Reddick, who wasn't even in the top 10 in the previous rankings, proved he should have never dropped off the list with his Daytona 500 victory. Elliott, who won his qualifying race and finished top five in his duel, has moved into the top spot. Other notable movers include Joey Logano, who won his duel and finished third, and Christopher Bell, who was a contender before getting wrecked for the second consecutive year at Daytona.

  • The NASCAR power rankings are being released ahead of the race at Atlanta Motor Speedway on Sunday, February 17, 2026 at 2 p.m. ET.
  • The Daytona 500, which saw several of the top drivers involved in wrecks, took place the previous weekend.

The players

Tyler Reddick

A driver for the 23XI Racing team who has surged back into the NASCAR power rankings after winning the Daytona 500.

Chase Elliott

The Hendrick Motorsports driver has moved to the top spot in the NASCAR power rankings ahead of the race at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

Joey Logano

The Penske driver won his duel and finished third in the Daytona 500, and is now second in the standings after one race.

Christopher Bell

The Joe Gibbs Racing driver was a contender at Daytona before getting wrecked for the second consecutive year, finishing 35th.

Ryan Blaney

The Team Penske driver was leading coming off Turn 4 at Daytona before getting passed and then tagged, finishing 27th.

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What’s next

The next race in the NASCAR Cup Series is scheduled for Sunday, February 17, 2026 at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

The takeaway

The shifting power dynamics in the NASCAR rankings heading into Atlanta highlight the unpredictable and competitive nature of the sport, with new contenders emerging and established stars looking to rebound from Daytona disappointments. Fans will be eager to see if Tyler Reddick can continue his momentum, and whether Chase Elliott can defend his recent Atlanta victory.