Columbus Blue Jackets Greatest Players: #9 – R.J. Umberger
The Columbus Blue Jackets will be entering their 17th season as a NHL franchise this year, so we thought it’s about time we celebrate the 17 greatest Blue Jackets. This list won’t be filled with the best players per say, but rather the most impactful, durable, and lovable Jackets in our minds.
If you missed yesterday’s pick check it out!
Related Story: #10 Ryan Johansen
#9 – R.J. Umberger
R.J. Umberger was acquired by the Columbus Blue Jackets from the Philadelphia Flyers for two picks in 2008. This trade did not seem to shake things up too much, but Columbus added a fan favorite in Umberger nonetheless.
Blue Jackets fans liked Umberger right off the bat because of his Columbus connection. He played college hockey for the Ohio State Buckeyes in Columbus from 2000 to 2003, so this was a homecoming of sorts.
Umberger would end up playing from 2008 to 2014 in Union Blue. In addition to his college days, his skills and grit made him a very lovable guy in Columbus. He was also a needed veteran, so much so that the Jackets made their first playoff appearance in franchise history in Umberger’s first season.
Umberger was a heck of a role player, tallying 40 or more points in four of his six seasons in Columbus. His role with the team was a little much compared to his skill level, however. Columbus needed Umberger to be a star, which he wasn’t able to be, which really hurt Umberger in the end.
Columbus traded R.J. back to Philadelphia for Scott Hartnell prior to the 2014-2015 season. This trade ended up being an absolute win for Columbus. Umberger’s play declined afterwards and the Blue Jackets got a player that produced and added value to the lineup. Hartnell was bought out this season, but it had nothing to do with his skill, which is still fairly high.
Nonetheless, Umberger’s time in Columbus was pretty positive and he’s a former Jacket that I only have fond memories of. He may get forgotten once this current batch of youngsters really take over, but he will always live on as our ninth greatest Columbus Blue Jackets player for us (until we re-do the list).