CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) -- Carl Edwards has dismissed a rumor that he will join Penske Racing next season.

Edwards brought the rumor up unprompted Wednesday in an effort to silence the discussion. He is in the first year of a new contract with Roush Fenway Racing, but there had been speculation he was trying to negotiate an out to take the opening at Penske.

Edwards says he's never had any discussions with anyone at Penske, and he's contractually obligated to drive the No. 99 Ford for Roush.

Edwards says he felt he should address the rumor because sponsors have asked him his plans.

Team owner Roger Penske is looking for a driver to replace AJ Allmendinger, but is believed to be close to announcing a deal with Joey Logano.