Blue Jackets’ Jack Williams Discusses Process of Choosing Columbus

It’s been a whirlwind week for Williams. He signed his ELC on March 25. He then took his time to get to Columbus as he said he was a little under the weather.

The team welcomed Williams right from the time the news came out. Both Boone Jenner and Zach Werenski sent him a text welcoming him to the team. Upon his arrival in Columbus, he met the rest of the team including a quick, handshake meeting with head coach Dean Evason.

“Just trying to soak everything in, take in as much information and just the surroundings and the guys that I can learn as much information as I can and hopefully apply it down the road.”

Williams will not be escorting the Blue Jackets on the trip to Ottawa Saturday. He will be staying back to skate. He hopes to get his legs under him after being off the ice for a little bit.

At this point, the Blue Jackets just want Williams to settle in and get comfortable with his new surroundings.

“Give everything I got and just try to learn as much as I can,” Williams said of what’s expected at practice. He knows that it will take hard work to crack the lineup knowing that they’re in the middle of a tight playoff race.

“Just working hard, doing what I’ve always done,” Williams said. “Giving 110% effort and showing coaching and teammates what I can bring to the table every single day so that I can gain some trust.”

Reflecting on Northeastern

Williams spent three seasons at Northeastern including becoming their team captain. He had at least 15 goals and 35 points the last two seasons there.

Williams made several close friendships while at Northeastern including with alums Devon Levi and Jayden Struble. He remains close with Levi to this day.

For Williams, the memories made will be what he remembers most.

“Definitely just the memories and the friendships. You talk about it when you go in. You’re going to meet your best friends and some guys that are going to be in your wedding. And I think I did that. We had an awesome class. Cam Lund made his debut last night. That was pretty special to watch. I’m going to miss those guys a lot and stay in touch.”

Excited For What’s to Come

With the Blue Jackets in the heat of the playoff race, Williams said he’s been paying attention to their games. He understands the potential opportunity he has when his number gets called. He will wear jersey 29 for the team.

“It’s been fun to watch,” Williams said. It’s a special opportunity here and to watch and be a part of something that they’re pushing for is pretty special. So I’m excited.”

As for when Williams’s debut might be, that’s to be determined. The Blue Jackets finally have a full, healthy roster at their disposal. Evason said earlier this week that Williams will have an opportunity by merit to earn his opportunity. He will practice with the team and they’ll things day-by-day from there.

The Blue Jackets targeted Williams from the beginning. They stayed in contact throughout the process and made him feel comfortable with everything. The end result was him signing his first NHL contract. It was a win-win for everyone involved.