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A Team Of Alternates: Blue Jackets Decide To Go Without A Captain In 2026-27, And It’s The Right Decision

The Columbus Blue Jackets announced Wednesday that the team will play without a captain in 2026-27. It’s a move with mixed reactions, but our Ed Francis likes the decision by coach Rick Bowness.

By Ed Francis · 1st Ohio Battery

Published: Sunday, 18 October 2026 at 10:30 PM

Key Things to Know

Ed Francis argues that the Columbus Blue Jackets made the right choice by deciding to play without a captain.
Zach Werenski remains an alternate captain, while other alternate roles will rotate among several players this season.
Head coach Rick Bowness expects at least eight different players could wear an alternate captain letter during the campaign.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The Columbus Blue Jackets announced Wednesday that they will not name a captain for the 2026-27 NHL season, opting instead for a rotating group of alternate captains. Defenseman Zach Werenski will retain his permanent 'A', while head coach Rick Bowness plans to rotate alternate captain duties among at least eight players throughout the year. For October, Mathieu Olivier and Charlie Coyle will serve as alternates at home, with Sean Monahan and Cole Sillinger wearing the letters on the road.

Ed Francis of 1st Ohio Battery argues that playing without a captain is the right move following an offseason filled with trade rumors and roster turnover. The writer believes avoiding a rushed captaincy appointment will help Bowness foster a shared leadership culture, allow young players like Sillinger and Adam Fantilli to grow, and leave the door open for Werenski to take the role if he signs a contract extension in 2027.

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