In most years, Bobby Labonte’s options would appear to be unlimited. The phone would be ringing, offers would be made. But even the most casual fan of the sport has come to realize that this isn’t most years.

Good rides, and potential good rides, are few and far between. The list of talented drivers standing in the unemployment line is long.

The list of fully sponsored, fulltime rides a short one. It’s a disheartening combination, even for a guy who has reached the top of his profession.

At 44, Labonte may no longer be in the prime of his driving career, but he’s far from finished. His resume includes 21 Cup wins and the 2000 NASCAR Cup championship, a priceless piece of hardware that can practically guarantee a driver a spot in the field. While re-entering the job market this late in the year may mean the list of potential new employers isn’t quite as long, Labonte would still appear to be at the top of just about any team owner’s wish list.