Julian Edelman To Drive Pace Car For NASCAR Sprint Cup Race In New Hampshire

Julian Edelman is suiting up Sunday, but not in his normal New England Patriots gear. The wide receiver and punt returner is taking his talents to NASCAR for the day.

New Hampshire Motor Speedway announced Monday that Edelman will drive the pace car — a Toyota Camry — for the Camping World RV Sales 301 Spring Cup Series race on July 13.

Edelman said his time as a punt returner in the NFL will help him with this new endeavor.

“As a punt returner in the NFL, I know all about teamwork, high speeds, and collisions on Sundays,” Edelman said in a statement, via The Boston Globe. “But my goal on Sunday, July 13 will be to get those guys around the track safely before they drop the green flag for what is sure to be a highly-competitive race.”

Though he has no experience driving the pace care, Edelman said he is more than up for the challenge.

“I am honored to be chosen to drive the pace car at New Hampshire Motor Speedway,” he said, “and I can’t wait to take in my very first NASCAR race from what will certainly be the best seat in the house.”

The race is set to start at 1 p.m.