Ryan Newman 2017 Season Recap

By Chase Wilhelm | Published: December 1, 2017 7

Brian Lawdermilk | Getty Images

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Brian Lawdermilk | Getty Images

Ryan Newman, driver of the No. 31 Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing, finished 16th in the 2017 Monster Energy Series standings. Here are the highlights from his 16th full season in NASCAR's top level.

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Chris Trotman | Getty Images

Using impressive pit strategy to be up front when it counted, Newman solidified a spot in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs with a win in the Camping World 500 at Phoenix Raceway.

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Tyler Overstreet

During the Coca-Cola 600 weekend, Newman and wife, Krissie, unveiled the Earnhardt Family Playground at Rescue Ranch, the couple's non-profit animal welfare organization. Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kerry Earnhardt and Kelley Earnhardt Miller were on hand for the ceremony.

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Sarah Crabill | Getty Images

After missing out on the postseason in 2016, Newman headed into the 2017 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs with four straight finishes of seventh or better, including a third in the regular-season finale at Richmond.

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Despite momentum heading into the 10-race playoffs, finishes of 23rd, 13th and 13th in the first round weren't enough to carry Newman on to the Round of 12. Moments after elimination at Dover, he and Jeff Gordon even exchanged some words.

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Brian Lawdermilk | Getty Images

Newman nearly stole a win away from playoffs drivers in the penultimate Round of 12 race at Talladega, finishing a close second to Brad Keselowski.

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Chris Graythen | Getty Images

Newman wrapped up his 18th season at the sport's highest level on a positive note, scoring a solid 10th-place finish in the season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway.