Former NFL running back Warrick Dunn spent time with NASCAR driver Chase Elliott ahead of the Quaker State 400 at EchoPark Speedway in Atlanta. Dunn, known for his football career at Florida State and in the NFL, attended the event along with former Auburn linebacker Takeo Spikes, sharing his enthusiasm for the sport.
Dunn expressed his excitement about the race, emphasizing the thrill of speed around the track. EchoPark Speedway’s social media shared a video in which he said,
“I’m really excited about the race,”
Warrick Dunn said. I’m ready for them to go zoom, zoom, zoom. It’s speed, it’s all about speed going around the track.
He continued to praise NASCAR’s growing appeal, saying,
“It should be a really amazing time. It’s good to be back here. This is not my first time. I’ve been here a couple of years, so I love the experience. NASCAR, you guys continue to accelerate. Stay safe and please, watch and enjoy.”
Dunn’s Connection with Chase Elliott and Atlanta
Warrick Dunn made a point to meet Chase Elliott, who is a prominent NASCAR driver from Georgia. Elliott’s presence in the race highlighted the local connection at the Atlanta event. Dunn, now 50, spent six seasons playing for the Atlanta Falcons from 2002 to 2007, earning two Pro Bowl selections. His impact extended beyond sports, receiving the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award in 2004 for his community efforts.
More About Dunn’s Ties to Atlanta and Football
In addition to his time with the Falcons, Dunn also played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during his NFL career, appearing for them from 1997 to 2001 and again in 2008. After retiring from playing, he became a minority owner of the Atlanta Falcons, maintaining a strong connection to the city’s football scene.
Reflecting on his ownership role, Dunn said in a previous interview,
“Most people don’t know this, but I’ve been a partner since 2009, I’m just low-key with it,”
Dunn told On3 last year. It’s been a great journey over the years, just an opportunity to, one, stay connected to the game, as close as I’ve been connected to it, of just being able to see the ups and downs of a football team franchise.
He added,
“Just in playing the game, I knew all of that, but now I’m looking from a business side perspective, all of the things that go into building the team, things that happen on game day outside the stadium, also inside the stadium, all those things. Just really learning the business side of the game has given me a really good outlook on opportunities and those things.”
Significance of Dunn’s NASCAR Visit and Atlanta Race
Warrick Dunn’s presence at the NASCAR Cup Series event highlights the growing crossover appeal between football and motorsports, especially in Atlanta where both sports have passionate fan bases. Meeting Chase Elliott serves to underline local pride in a top Georgia driver competing at EchoPark Speedway.
As NASCAR continues to expand its audience and excite fans with high-speed racing, personalities like Dunn bring additional attention and enthusiasm, fostering a broader appreciation for the sport. The Quaker State 400 remains a major attraction in Atlanta’s sporting calendar, promising more thrilling moments as drivers compete at one of NASCAR’s key venues.
