The Columbus Blue Jackets announced on Tuesday that they have re-signed veteran defenseman Erik Gudbranson to a one-year contract worth $1.75 million for the 2026-27 season, keeping the 34-year-old under contract through another campaign.
Veteran Defender Returns to Columbus
General manager Don Waddell highlighted Gudbranson’s professionalism, physical presence and leadership, noting that the blueliner’s consistent defensive contributions have been a cornerstone of the team’s recent success.
Across 15 NHL seasons, Gudbranson has amassed 35 goals and 105 assists for 140 points, while logging 864 penalty minutes, 1,757 hits and 1,157 blocked shots, underscoring his reputation as a rugged, stay-at-home defender.
Since joining Columbus in 2022, he has appeared in 201 games, contributing eight goals and 38 assists for 46 points, adding 156 penalty minutes, 282 hits and 390 blocked shots, and posting double-digit point totals in each of his first two seasons with the club.
Selected third overall by Florida in the 2010 NHL Draft, Gudbranson has represented Canada at the 2011 and 2014 IIHF World Championships, earning a silver medal in 2011, and spent three seasons with the Kingston Frontenacs in the OHL.
His blend of experience and durability offers the Blue Jackets a reliable option on the ice as they look to build on recent playoff aspirations, and his return signals a continued commitment to a defensive identity that has defined the franchise.