May 22, 2008

Aflac Will Sponsor Carl Edwards

Office Depot will no longer sponsor Carl Edwards and the 99 Roush Fenway Racing entry following the 2009 season. Aflac, which is a secdonary sponsor, will replace the office supplies chain. Recently, UPS surfaced as a possible sponsor for Edwards as they appear to be shopping for a new driver to take on a marketable role, similar to Dale Jarrett.

UPS was also linked to Martin Truex, Jr and Penske Racing, not sure how that one started. Truex, Jr is currently under contract with DEI and with an option for 2009, but he is in no hurry to sign any dotted lines. Truex, Jr joining Penske could mean that a fourth team is on the horizon, or that Ryan Newman is leaving. Newman is arguably the top free agent that has no contract signed for 2009. Tony Stewart is not a free agent.

Jeremy Mayfield has returned from a 12-day tour in Iraq. Mayfield has flew under the radar ever since he parted ways with Haas CNC Racing in April. The five-time winner, and two-time Chase for the Championship participant should be a hot commodity, but his track record with car owners has lowered his stock just a bit. He will receive another opportunity at Dover as he will drive the number 40 Dodge for the currently injured Dario Franchitti. I'm not sure that driving for Chip Ganassi will showcase your potential, but it is a step up from Haas CNC Racing.

LMS track promoter Humpy Wheeler announced his retirement on Wednesday after 33 years. Wheeler is the long-time president of LMS and a legendary promoter. He also befriened several of NASCAR"s legends such as Dale Earnhardt, Richard Petty, and David Pearson.

Doug Richert is out as the crew chief on DEI's 01 entry and is replced by Kevin Buskirk.