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Jimmie Johnson sends message of support to Erik Jones, Corey Heim

Originally posted on 5 GOATs | By Steve Samra | Last updated 4/23/24

After a terrifying wreck during this past Sunday’s GEICO 500 at Talladega Superspeedway, it’s been revealed that Erik Jones has suffered a spinal fracture.

That means Jones will be sidelined for this Sunday’s Würth 400 at Dover Motor Speedway, and beyond that is anyone’s guess. An outpouring of support for Jones has been the awesome response to the news, with a key figure in NASCAR, and Jones’ team, offering his take on the matter.

Jimmie Johnson, one of the owners of Jones’ Legacy Motor Club team, responded to the No. 43 wheelman’s announcement with a heart-warming statement, revealing how much he truly cares about Jones not just as a driver, but as a person.

You have our full support my friend, your health and safety is our top concern. https://t.co/QQ8364srl1
— Jimmie Johnson (@JimmieJohnson) April 23, 2024

“You have our full support my friend,” Johnson responded, quoting Jones’ video on X, formerly known as Twitter. “Your health and safety is our top concern.”

With Jones now sidelined, somebody has to step in and drive the No. 43 this weekend, and the opportunity will go to Corey Heim. Johnson also provided a statement on that matter, wishing the fill-in some luck during his first appearance with Legacy Motor Club.

Thanks for answering the call @CoreyHeim_, let’s have some fun this weekend https://t.co/kc5MaORSiv
— Jimmie Johnson (@JimmieJohnson) April 23, 2024

“Thanks for answering the call @CoreyHeim_,” the seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion turned team owner posted on X. “Let’s have some fun this weekend.”

Corey Heim is one of Toyota’s most talented prospects. Along with fellow Georgia driver Chandler Smith in the Xfinity Series, it feels like those two are next up when that time may come. Right now, it is officially Heim Time.

This season in the Craftsman Truck Series, Heim has finished all seven races in the top-10. He has a win and four top-5 finishes to go alon with a pair of top-10s. Heim also has a top-5 finish in the Xfinity Series from Richmond.

While it is due to unfortunate circumstances, this is a big opportunity for Heim. His only NASCAR start at Dover was in the Xfinity Series in 2023. He unfortunately was a P35 DNF. Legacy Motor Club fans can expect Heim to be patient, learn each lap, and to make the most of his day.

Additionally, Jones will still be in Dover to support his team, awaiting the time where he can jump back in the car.

“(I) just wanted to say thanks to Legacy for supporting me during this time. I’ll be in Dover this weekend supporting Corey and the 43 car to try and get them out there and running well this weekend while I can’t be in,” Jones said, via X. “So, just wanted to let you guys know that I’m alright, I’m home and healing up and be back in the car soon.”

Alas, it should be an interesting weekend for Corey Heim, Jimmie Johnson and of course Erik Jones, who NASCAR fans will be patiently waiting for to jump back into the No. 43.

On3’s Jonathan Howard contributed to this article.

This article first appeared on 5 GOATs and was syndicated with permission.

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