Earnhardt downplays Petty concussion talk

Dale Earnhardt Jr. knows seven-time champion Richard Petty is just looking out for his well-being.

A week after Petty appeared on Fox Sports 1's "Race Hub" and said he was "disappointed" to hear Earnhardt would be making a return to competition after another concussion, Earnhardt responded on his podcast. On the first episode of this season's "The Dale Jr. Download" released Tuesday, Earnhardt said he felt that Petty's comments were essentially turned into Internet headline click bait, because he took them simply as Petty being concerned about his future.

"I know he's that kind of guy having been around him," Earnhardt said. "So I'm not disappointed in his comment. I think that he's just looking out for me, which I appreciate."

Petty was asked to comment on Earnhardt, who had not only been cleared to resume racing but would be doing so for his 18th season in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series. Earnhardt is coming off at least the third known concussion of his career.

"I was a little bit disappointed that he did [say he was returning]," Petty said. "I just felt like he got through with it two or three times, and he had some pretty big knocks in the head. I've had them, too. I think I still live in one of them, but mine was never that bad."

Petty continued by saying Earnhardt has lived half his life and doesn't need to be "messed up" for the next half. Plus, with all the opportunities in front of him, Petty feels Earnhardt could make a career of something else and downgrade racing to a minor part of his life.

Having seen the headlines and discussions about Petty's comments on Twitter, Earnhardt wanted to set the record straight on his podcast. He also revealed that his relationship with Petty has changed since he was injured last June at Michigan International Speedway.

"For the longest time, when I'd see Richard I'd go up to him and shake his hand out of respect for him and everything that he's done for this sport, and he was always very nice," Earnhardt said. "But ever since I was injured and on my return, every time I see him now he grabs me by the arm and kind of gives me this big bear hug or something. Or puts his arm around you and asks you how you're doing, and asks you if you're taking care of yourself. He's way more engaged.

"I wouldn't have instigated that because he's a legend, but he's super engaged with me now, and he's always concerned about my well-being. So, I think that his comment is basically saying, 'I'm worried about Dale Jr., this is me caring about Dale as a person.' Nothing more."

A two-time winner of the Daytona 500, Earnhardt will make his official return to NASCAR competition in the 59th running of the event on February 26.