Dale Earnhardt Jr. recently outlined his choices for four promising young racers he would select if building a new NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series team, bringing the Dale Earnhardt Jr driver picks into the spotlight. The veteran driver shared his vision and enthusiasm for identifying rising stars during an “Ask Jr.” session on his podcast, offering an engaging look at potential future champions in stock car racing.
Earnhardt Jr. Shares His Ideal Team Selection Approach
While speaking on his podcast, Earnhardt Jr., known for his achievements both on and off the track, was asked about the up-and-coming drivers he would want on his team if offered the resources to create a fully backed squad. Reflecting on the difference between scouting for the NASCAR Xfinity Series and the Truck Series, Earnhardt noted the challenge and excitement of picking from lesser-known ranks.
“At the Xfinity level, we’re kind of looking for guys that are proven, or we feel like they’re already beyond truck, if you will. But if you’re just trying to pull guys out of the asphalt ranks and some of the dirt ranks, that’d be so much fun. There’s so much talent. But it’d be a fun opportunity.”
– Dale Earnhardt Jr., Team Owner and Podcast Host
Jade Avedisian: A Standout Among Newcomers
For his top choice, Earnhardt Jr. selected Jade Avedisian, a standout in dirt midget racing. Avedisian recently captured attention by winning her first Super Late Model feature at the World Series of Asphalt, showcasing her skill across different racing surfaces and earning respect throughout the motorsports community.
“Jade Avedisian, I think she’s got what it takes,”
Earnhardt emphasized, before elaborating,
“And I’ve talked to Corey Day this past weekend, who’s raced with her a lot. He said, ‘She’s the real deal.’ So I would get her in a truck.”
– Dale Earnhardt Jr., Team Owner and Podcast Host
Carson Ferguson Gains Praise for Versatility
Another name on Earnhardt’s wish list is Carson Ferguson, recognized for his versatility in both dirt and asphalt competitions. Ferguson’s career includes securing titles in the Dirt Nationals, Asphalt Nationals, and Road Course World Finals for Legends cars, reflecting wide-ranging adaptability. Last season, Ferguson demonstrated continued progress with two dirt track wins and a runner-up finish in the inaugural ‘Ram: Race for The Seat’ competition, just behind Timothy Tyrrell, who claimed a full-time Truck Series seat for 2026 with Kaulig Racing.
“Somebody was calling me saying, ‘Dude, this guy really could do it on the pavement side.’ There it is. Carson Ferguson,”
Earnhardt commented, adding,
“Yeah. I hear good things about him.”
– Dale Earnhardt Jr., Team Owner and Podcast Host
Austin Beers: Consistency and Competitive Edge
For his third pick, Earnhardt Jr. turned to a driver he knows personally: Austin Beers. Beers clinched the 2025 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour championship, delivered twelve top-5 finishes, and posted sixteen top-10s last season without ever sliding below ninth position. His consistency and competitive edge on the circuit made him a natural fit for Earnhardt’s fantasy roster.
“Austin’s in our college football dynasty [league]. How could you not pick him? And he’s talented,”
Earnhardt stated, showing his support for Beers’s abilities and potential. – Dale Earnhardt Jr., Team Owner and Podcast Host
Caden Kvapil: Next in Line After More Experience
Completing Earnhardt’s quartet is Caden Kvapil, a driver hailing from Mooresville, North Carolina, who recently took victory in the Charlie Powell Memorial 400 Late Model race by edging out his own brother, Carson. While Kvapil is seen as a future contender, Earnhardt believes more experience in the Cars Tour series will further prepare him for a national spotlight.
“I think Caden needs another year or two of Cars Tour and he’ll be ready,”
Earnhardt added, offering a measured endorsement of Kvapil’s progression. – Dale Earnhardt Jr., Team Owner and Podcast Host
What These Picks Mean for NASCAR’s Future
Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s driver selections underline his keen eye for talent and the dynamic nature of today’s motorsports landscape. By highlighting drivers such as Jade Avedisian, Carson Ferguson, Austin Beers, and Caden Kvapil, Earnhardt brings attention to the next generation of racers who could soon shape the future of the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. With endorsements from industry voices and results to back up their promise, these drivers represent an exciting wave of talent, setting the stage for highly anticipated developments in stock car racing in the seasons ahead.
