“If you’re looking for a driver, you’re looking for me.” It’s the phrase Carl Edwards used to market himself in his early racing days. His relentless work ethic led him from substitute teaching to NASCAR stardom. Edwards became one of the most accomplished drivers in modern NASCAR, winning 72 races across national series. His trademark backflip celebrations and fierce battles on the track made him a fan favorite.

Despite such amazing charisma and support, Edwards made a shocking retirement call. In 2016, he left the NASCAR world while being at the peak of his racing career. Since then, speculation about an Edwards comeback has surfaced repeatedly. Would he ever return to NASCAR for a one-off race? His name has been linked to potential rides before, but nothing has materialized. Recently, things turned serious when 2021 Cup series champion Kyle Larson asked him to substitute in the All-Star Race. While Larson is excited about this opportunity, Edwards is concerned he’ll mess things up.

Will Carl Edwards make a NASCAR comeback?

Kyle Larson is preparing for another grueling attempt at “The Double” in 2025. As he juggles the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day, Hendrick Motorsports will need a substitute driver to handle the No. 5 car in practice at North Wilkesboro Speedway. Last year, Kevin Harvick took the role, but this time, Larson had a different name in mind, i.e. Carl Edwards.

Speaking to FOX Sports’ Bob Pockrass, Larson made a public plea to Edwards. “I would love to have Carl Edwards do it. I think it would be great. That’s my pick this year. I’ve mentioned it to Jeff Gordon and [Cliff Daniels], but nobody outside of that. So, it’s not anything serious right now, but that’s who I would pick. I think that would make a huge splash in the sport and be great. Carl, if you see this, please jump in the No. 5 car. We want you,” Larson told Pockrass.

Kyle Larson’s pitch to Edwards came with an enthusiastic plea, hoping to lure the 28-time Cup Series winner back into a race car. However, the former NASCAR star was quick to shut down any serious expectations. While speaking with Pockrass Edwards said, “No. Actually, it was cool. My friend Chris Santusi sent me that. Really, I mean, it’s an honor. I mean, he’s [Kyle Larson] one of the fastest guys that ever tried one of these cars. And for him to say that I don’t know if he’s messing with me. I’m likely to crash a car if I were to get in one right now, but that is kind of interesting.”

Edwards’ departure from the sport in 2016 could be the biggest reason behind his reluctance to make a comeback. Since 2016, NASCAR has changed a lot. Many NASCAR veteran finds difficulty in controlling the new Next-Gen car. However, left the door slightly open, suggesting he might try a simulator before completely ruling it out. “No, it’s never a total no. I like options, but I don’t know. I’d say yeah, it’s no for now, but I’d drive a SIM and check it out,” Edwards added.

Notably, Carl Edwards started his NASCAR career in the early 2000s. His early success in the Truck Series led to full-time rides in both the Xfinity and Cup Series. He won his first races in each division during a weekend sweep at Atlanta Motor Speedway in 2005. Over the next decade, Edwards would claim 28 Cup Series victories, including marquee wins at the Coca-Cola 600 and Southern 500 in 2015. He twice finished as the runner-up in the championship, most famously losing the 2011 title in a tiebreaker.

As Edwards refused to fill in for Kyle Larson, Hendrick Motorsports might once again move to Kevin Harvick for the favor. Last year, Harvick had stepped in to practice Larson’s car at North Wilkesboro when Larson attempted The Double for the first time. Harvick, who retired at the end of the 2023 season, might be a natural choice given his recent experience in the Next Gen car. However, Edwards taking the seat would have been a big headline.

Larson takes a gamble!

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While Edwards’ return remains uncertain, Larson’s second attempt at The Double is set in stone. After the weather ruined his first shot in 2024, he’s determined to complete all 1,100 miles of racing in 2025. The feat requires extreme endurance, precise scheduling, and a little bit of luck. Notably, Larson’s 2024 bid was chaotic and disheartening as he failed to make it to the Coca-Cola 600 in time.

A rain delay at the Indy 500 forced him to stay in Indianapolis longer than expected. When he finally completed the race, he jetted to Charlotte, only to find that the Coca-Cola 600 had already begun. Justin Allgaier was behind the wheel of the No. 5 car, but just as Larson suited up to take over, rain hit again. NASCAR called the race early, leaving him without a chance to compete. Now, Larson aims to make it count this year as his McLaren contract is also expiring at the end of the 2025 season.

Notably, this year’s challenge is even bigger. Larson’s 2024 failed attempt translated into a missed regular season race, which makes a driver ineligible for playoffs. Despite skipping the race, he was granted a waiver and remained eligible for the playoffs. However, under the new rule, he will lose the playoff points which could severely hurt his championship hopes. This rule puts immense pressure on Larson’s scheduling and decision-making on race day.

If rain or unforeseen delays push back the Indy 500, he will have to decide whether to finish the race or leave early to ensure he makes the start of the Coke 600. Even if he is performing well at Indianapolis, staying too long could cost him in NASCAR’s championship battle. What do you think will Larson be able to complete the double in 2025?