2017 NASCAR Rookie of the Year has been awarded to Joe Gibbs Racing driver Erik Jones
The NASCAR Rookie of the Year award isn’t based strictly on points. Other factors include; the way the driver handles himself off track as well as with the media. It’s a vote from a NASCAR panel.
However, in this case, Erik Jones also won the Rookie of the Year points battle.
“I’m honored to be standing up here as the 2017 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Sunoco Rookie of the Year,” Jones stated at the Myers Brothers Award show.
“It was an incredible learning year for me and my Furniture Row teammates. And a time that I’ll always remember. We were able to accomplish so many goals that we set out before this season began.”
Barney had a vision of what could be and how to do it, in his own way.
-Erik Jones
“There’s so many people I have to thank. But, it really starts with Furniture Row Racing team owner Barney Visser. Barney had a vision of what could be and how to do it, in his own way. There were the early struggles, like every team has. But, he kept that vision alive.”
“I hate that he can’t be here today because this is a huge accomplishment for him as an owner. So, I wanna congratulate you Barney and congratulations on a well deserved dream season.”
Related: Keselowski says Visser “Schooled” the owners
“The little race shop in Denver is a pretty special place.”
“I came a long way from that test at Phoenix, back in January. This is a very special year for me and I appreciate all the things you guys have done.”
“5 Hour Energy took a chance on a Rookie driver. I have a feeling those little bottles are gunna come in handy as the week goes on in Vegas.”
Related: Erik Jones hits metal staircase in NBC Sports car
Related: 2018 Martin Truex Jr paint scheme: 5 Hour Energy
2017 NASCAR Rookie of the Year Point Standings
| Driver | Points |
| Erik Jones | 310 |
| Daniel Suarez | 296 |
| Ty Dillon | 229 |
| Gray Gaulding | 193 |
