Re: Caliber options for a .223 lower??
Caliber options for a .223/5.56 lower are NUMEROUS to put it mildly (dozens and dozens...especially if you count the wildcat cartridges and "one-offs"), but the "big" few are roughly 5.45x39, .223/5.56x45, 6.5 Grendel, 6.8SPC, .300 Blackout (or 7.62x35), .458 SOCOM, and .50 Beowulf to name a few. The .300 Blackout is an excellent choice for many applications but depending on your wants/needs, may not be the best for you.
Also, don't forget the venerable conversions for .22LR and the multitude of pistol caliber options, especially the 9mm/9x19. Both of these options are nice given the EXTREME cheap cost of running a .22LR with 9mm still coming in considerably cheaper than most bulk-pack .223/5.56 ammo.
Let your particular needs/wants dictate what would be the best caliber for you. If you have anything in mind in terms of what you'd like from a new caliber, by all means post 'em up and maybe we can collectively help you narrow the field somewhat.