Zach Werenski is comfortable with returning to Columbus next season. The Blue Jackets and Werenski issue statements Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender Jet Greaves (73) and defenseman Zach Werenski (8) defend the net against St. Louis Blues right wing Jimmy Snuggerud (21) during the second period at Enterprise Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

Zach Werenski Staying in Columbus Now?

Originally posted on NHL Rumors | By Mark Easson | Last updated Jul 1, 2026 9:23 PM ET

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Zach Werenski is comfortable with returning to Columbus next season. Blue Jackets and Werenski issue statements

Darren Dreger: It sounds like Columbus Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell spoke with Zach Werenski and his agent, Judd Moldaver, in an attempt to clear the air and calm things down.

Werenski is okay and comfortable with going back to Columbus next season.

Waddel could approach Werenski with a trade at some point, but it’s not looking like it is on the radar right now.

Columbus Blue Jackets President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Don Waddell and All-Star defenseman Zach Werenski have issued the following statements today. pic.twitter.com/kmNYvDEZfW

— Columbus Blue Jackets (@BlueJacketsNHL) July 1, 2026