Zach Werenski remains a major piece for Rick Bowness, but the Blue Jackets' latest leadership decision has reopened an uncomfortable conversation.
Columbus unveiled its leadership group for the 2026-27 season without naming a captain, leaving Werenski as the club's only permanent alternate.
This is an odd move announced by the team, specifically for Werenski.
Charlie Coyle and Mathieu Olivier will wear an “A” at home during October, while Sean Monahan and Cole Sillinger will handle those duties on the road.
That rotation immediately drew attention because Werenski has already served as an alternate captain since 2021. After five seasons with a letter, many expected the next move to be the “C.”
Instead, the Blue Jackets left the captaincy vacant, giving fresh life to questions about Werenski's long-term future in Columbus.
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Those questions carry more weight because of what happened during the summer. General manager Don Waddell explored the trade market after discussions with Werenski following the season.
Werenski trade talk returns after summer drama
Columbus eventually reached an agreement in principle on a deal that would have sent Werenski to the Dallas Stars, but the defenseman used his full no-movement clause to block the move.
Werenski later made his position clear. He said he had never requested a trade and wanted to remain with the Blue Jackets and help the organization win.
Waddell and Werenski also moved to settle the situation publicly, creating the expectation that the defenseman would return to Columbus with the matter behind him.
The captaincy decision has changed the tone again. Hockey commentator Pete Blackburn suggested the move could reflect uncertainty over whether Werenski will remain with the organization long term.
There are other explanations. Bowness may simply prefer spreading leadership responsibilities across the locker room rather than putting the captaincy on one player immediately.
Coyle and Monahan also bring veteran voices, while Olivier and Sillinger give Columbus several players carrying visible leadership responsibilities.
But Werenski's situation will remain under a microscope. He's the established star on the blue line, already holds a permanent letter and was involved in serious trade discussions only months ago.
Until Columbus names a captain or Werenski's long-term future becomes clearer, every leadership decision involving him will carry extra meaning.
Should the Blue Jackets name Zach Werenski captain?
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