My thoughts on Jr Leaving DEI

Okay, now, I've finally got the time to expound upon my thoughts on this topic.

I think it's great that he's leaving. If you were a driver and you got sub par equipment, wouldn't you do the same thing? Not to mention, that the owner of the team disrespected him in the press. I think that's a rude and unprofessional thing to do.

Now, the rumors of which team he'll be headed to in 2008 are coming fast and furious. Whispers of Gibbs, Hendrick and RCR are heard mostly.

I think that his best choice would be RCR, because he has such a close relationship with Richard Childress, just like his father did. I think he would have his needs in mind, when he would negotiate a contract. I also think that he would be all ears, when it comes to equipment. Also, the guidance of an older driver, in Jeff Burton. I think that the safety minded elder driver, could help Junior immensely.

When he gets to one of these teams, or RCR specifically, who would they pair him with in the pits? I can't think of anyone on his current crew, that I would place him with. Some of the best crew chiefs are taken: Chad Knaus with Johnson, Greg Zippadeli with Tony Stewart... the list goes on.

That would remain to be speculated on as well. I honestly can say, that I hope Tony Eury Jr will NOT be his chief, come 2008. I think that even though they're family, they still clash and do not get along, no matter how they like to say the opposite. Hearing them on the radio, you would think that they hated each other. Arguing during pit stops, yelling at each other during the race, during the season, seems to never stop.

As for DEI surviving after Junior leaves? Not likely. Most of their money comes from the sponsorship cash, licensing of merchandise and his name, period. He is the son of a champion, who has won championships, but has not done that in Cup. He wants to do that and if he can't do it there, he'll go elsewhere.

I think Teresa is smoking some dope, if she thinks that the team will survive after he's gone. If Junior leaves, I can see Martin Truex leaving as well, leaving Paul Menard to fend for himself. That would not be good for Menard's career, as well as his life, period. Rumors have his father funding his ride and supplying some funds for DEI and supporting his alleged girlfriend, Teresa. Who knows really what's going on there. It's all speculation.

Things will be quiet, until we hear the announcement about what team he will be joining. I imagine it would be a press conference such as the one he had to announce his leaving DEI.

Until then...people will still speculate and not leave the poor man alone.

One can only hope that he makes the best decision for himself and JR Motorsports.