The last remaining question involving the Blue Jackets roster for next season has seemingly been answered. In his press conference this afternoon, GM Don Waddell announced that the team would be re-signing defenseman Erik Gudbranson.
This move gives the Jackets the same seven defensemen returning from last season. Gudbranson joins Zach Werenski, Damon Severson, Ivan Provorov, Denton Mateychuk, Dante Fabbro, and Jake Christiansen as the blue line corps for the team.
Assuming the team extends its remaining RFAs (Adam Fantilli, Cole Sillinger, and Jet Greaves), this completes the roster for the 2026-27 season. There are already 11 forwards on NHL-only contracts, along with one goaltender (Elvis Merzlikins).
Gudbranson returning gives the team 22 bodies, again, assuming those RFAs all return. That leaves just one open roster spot for the team to add another forward or defenseman, we would assume from the Cleveland Monsters.
A known entity with the traits this team needs.
The 6'5", 222 pound Gudbranson became the best option for the Blue Jackets to round out their defense corps. After exploring both the trade and free agency market, Waddell opts to bring back the known entity.
Erik brings a lot of traits that no other defenseman on this team can provide. He's big, physical, tough as nails, and kills penalties better than anyone else here. Over the past four seasons in Columbus, he has accumulated 201 games; scoring 8 goals, 46 points, and adding 156 penalty minutes.
The big concern has been his inability to stay healthy. Over the last two seasons, he's missed 111 of 164 games. However, according to Waddell, he's been working out in Columbus so far this offseason, and is in great shape. He should be ready for next season.
Gudbranson will anchor the team's third defense pairing, likely alongside one of Dante Fabbro, Denton Mateychuk, or Ivan Provorov. It will be interesting to see how Rick Bowness uses them, with the 5/6 defensemen both being right-hand shots.
It's possible that one of the two could wind up in the press box, depending on how the team feels about Christiansen or another option (ahem: Guillaume Richard). This is one battle we will watch for throughout training camp, and into the early part of the season.
More than anything, I'm happy the team saw value in bringing #44 back for his leadership qualities. He has been an excellent calming presence for this team. Welcome back to Columbus, Erik!
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