Hendrick to re-sign Jimmie Johnson and Chad Knaus

UPDATE This rumor is upgraded to 'fact' today. Rick Hendrick has locked the six-time champion and sponsor Lowe's into a 2-year contract extension that runs through the 2017 season. The deal announced Monday comes as Johnson prepares for the opening race of NASCAR's playoffs, and he seemed amused that his possible free agency "caught some buzz" throughout the industry as negotiations continued.

"In my heart, Hendrick is my home, Lowe's is my sponsor and I certainly hope it stays this way until the day I quit driving," Johnson told The Associated Press.

In addition to the extensions for Johnson and Lowe's, crew chief Chad Knaus had previously inked a new three-year deal through the 2018 season.

09/10/15