Blue Jackets Likely to Name Zach Werenski Captain This Summer – The Hockey Writers – Columbus Blue Jackets

If the Columbus Blue Jackets plan to retain new head coach Rick Bowness for next season, we can expect that many roster changes are coming. One thing Bowness called out consistently in his end-of-season press conferences was the team’s makeup, and that they didn’t hate losing. However, based on many players’ comments to the media, they did not agree with their coach’s judgment.

What’s more, Bowness argued that the leadership group he is agreeing to move forward with has not been good enough. He noted that those with an “A” or “C” on their sweater shouldn’t be the only leaders, and basically called out some players for not leading more. With that, I think we can expect Bowness to make changes that will reflect the culture he wants to build within his team.

Werenski Getting His Chance

As the best player on the roster, Zach Werenski should get his chance to be the captain for the only team he has played for. This means Boone Jenner has likely seen the last of his days as captain, and likely the Blue Jackets as well.

Werenski has earned the “C”. Last season, he finished second in Norris Trophy voting, and this season, he is the odds-on favorite to win it as the best defenseman in the NHL.

The whole fanbase seems to be on board with this decision. However, it comes with a heavy heart, realizing that this likely means the end of Jenner’s 12-year career in Columbus.

Werenski is an immovable piece of the team’s core, and it serves as a reminder that the old guard just isn’t good enough anymore. The new guard is coming, as the young stars of tomorrow become the superstars of today, and the Blue Jackets are ready to compete.

Jenner is not alone. More than a few free agents who have meant a lot to the team are not expected to return, but this might be the shot in the arm they need to wake up. Young players who deserve a chance will now get it, and they should have something to prove.

Who Might Be The Alternates Under Werenski

Adam Fantilli should be at the top of the list of players who are ready for a leadership role. He not only leads on the ice with his two-way play, but he also centers one of the better top lines in the league when healthy.

Another option, although not unanimous, is Charlie Coyle. His veteran leadership has been crucial to the success of many young Blue Jackets’ careers thus far. He also had one of the best seasons of his 14-year career this past seaso and would be a massive free agent for the Blue Jackets to retain.

Blue Jackets arrived at the arena this morning without a path to the playoffs, first time in Charlie Coyle’s career.

Adam Fantilli said “I hate talking like this, standing here right now saying what I was saying earlier in the season that these points could matter.” @nbc4i pic.twitter.com/P0EzJOZcKP

— Joe Nugent (@joenuge) April 14, 2026

These two forwards would be the perfect mix of young and veteran leadership. Then, of course, we have some fun options, like Mathieu Olivier, who has earned a look for leading the team, and the NHL for that matter, with his fists.

He has proven to be one hell of a player when healthy, and contributes in so many ways outside of fighting that genuinely impact the game at a much higher level. Another fun option is Jet Greaves, who could be one of those rare occasions when a goaltender wears a letter.

Greaves will get his shot at the World Championship this year, playing for Team Canada, which could boost his case for a leadership role. He is a difference-maker, and he is a restricted free agent this summer. The Blue Jackets will want to make sure they lock him up to a huge deal.

The Blue Jackets and their future revolve around the young stars who are coming into their own, and that will likely start with Werenski leading the charge. He is the best choice for captain, as the best and most consistent player on the team.