Biffle, Yeley among group being considered to drive No. 8

Greg Biffle, Regan Smith, J.J. Yeley and David Reutimann are among the drivers being considered for the No. 8 car at Dale Earnhardt Inc., a source close to the situation told ESPN.com. Don't count Mark Martin out, either.

Biffle is under contract through 2008 at Roush Fenway Racing, so he's a long-shot for next season.

But should he opt to sign with DEI for 2009 and not be released by Roush, there's a scenario in which Martin and Aric Almirola split the No. 8 next season and Smith moves into the No. 01 currently shared by those drivers.

Then in 2009 Biffle would move into the No. 8 that Dale Earnhardt Jr. is vacating after this season so he can drive for Hendrick Motorsports.

DEI officials also are high on Reutimann, whose contract with Michael Waltrip Racing expires after this season. Reutimann said he hasn't spoken to DEI officials.

"Whatever is being said is without my knowledge," Reutimann said. "But who wouldn't be thrilled to have their name mentioned with DEI."