Power Rankings: 450SX Pre-Season Title Favorites

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I think I speak for everyone in saying how absolutely gutted I am for Jett Lawrence. For a second straight year we are going to miss out on of the all-time greats in Supercross for much of the season. It’s a bummer for the fans, the series, and everyone in his camp. Hopefully he can bounce back and come back stronger for his Pro Motocross and SMX World Championship title defenses. 

 I, like most, probably had Jett as the title favorite entering the year, but his injury opens the door for someone else at the top.

So, with less than a month before the start of a new season, I am putting together MY pre-season 450 title favorites. 

1: Cooper Webb

It won’t start pretty, but once we go to the East Coast, Cooper Webb will find his stride and grind his way into the championship lead. It’s what he does, and until he doesn’t, I have to put him at the top.

2: Chase Sexton

If Sexton wasn’t switching to a brand new bike and team for 2026, I would be hard pressed not to have him at no 1. I just feel it always takes time to dial in a new setup and I don’t see this year being any different. If Sexton can adjust quickly, watch out though, because he has speed for days.

3: Ken Roczen

Don’t sleep on Kenny. He is riding at an all-time level right now and while it isn’t Anaheim 1, he put on a show in the FIM World Supercross Championship and would have won that title if he raced the last two rounds. My sleeper pick for 2026. 

4: Hunter Lawrence

Maybe I have him too low, but he hasn’t won a main event in Supercross in his career. Hard for me to put him above the other three who have a LOT of wins on their resume.

5: Eli Tomac

Again, maybe too low, but like Sexton, I feel the team switch is why I have him here. He was able to iron some things out in WSX, so maybe I’m completely wrong and he will find a way to get it done. 

As always, I’m sure everyone agrees with this list and there are zero complaints.