CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Carl Edwards’ crew chief stepped down Tuesday, 19 races removed from a disheartening defeat in last year’s championship race.

Bob Osborne cited undisclosed health concerns in his decision to relinquish the No. 99 Ford, which has been stuck in a slump since Edwards ended last season tied with Tony Stewart in the Chase for the Sprint Cup championship. The title went to Stewart on a tie-breaker.

“I have had the pleasure of working with Carl Edwards for the past nine years and, during that time, my focus has been building a championship-caliber program,” Osborne said in a statement.

“At this time in my life, however, concerns with my health have necessitated that I change my role within the organization.”

Osborne, who guided Edwards to 18 wins and two runner-up finishes in the points, will move to a senior management position with Roush Fenway Racing. He’ll be replaced as crew chief by Chad Norris, who has been with Roush since 2005 as a crew chief in the Nationwide and Truck Series.

“This transition is not an easy one, but I’m thankful to have the full support of Jack (Roush), Carl and the entire organization.”