Columbus Blue Jackets sign Josh Eernisse to boost offense

Columbus Blue Jackets announced the signing of forward Josh Eernisse to a one‑year contract for the 2026‑27 season, hoping his scoring touch and shorthanded experience will help a club that sits 11th in the Eastern Conference with a 40‑30 record as of July 4, 2026, on a two‑game losing streak.

Who is Josh Eernisse?

Eernisse is a Michigan Wolverine who spent three seasons with the Wolverines, reaching the 2026 Frozen Four before falling to Denver in the semifinals. He logged 11 goals and 19 points in 38 games as a senior, tying for second nationally in shorthanded goals with three. His résumé includes two Frozen Four trips, a Big Ten championship, and multiple academic honors.

Why does the signing matter for Columbus?

The Jackets have relied on veteran depth and rookie energy this year, but a lack of consistent secondary scoring has lingered. Eernisse brings a blend of offensive instincts and penalty‑kill reliability, having logged heavy minutes on both ends at Michigan. His ability to generate short‑handed chances could tighten a special‑teams unit that struggled in the first half of the season.

How will Eernisse fit into the lineup?

Coach Mike Miller is expected to slot Eernisse on the third line alongside veteran forward Ryan Strome and rookie Alex Kelley. The line will likely see Eernisse paired with a right‑handed winger to maximize his shooting angle. On the penalty kill, he could join the existing core of defenseman Zach Werenski and forward Andrew Coppola, adding speed and a nose for the puck.

What’s next for the Blue Jackets?

The club heads into its next road trip with a two‑game losing streak, looking to snap the skid and climb the conference ladder. Eernisse will join practice on July 5 and is slated to make his first appearance in the preseason opener on September 12 against the Detroit Red Wings. If he adapts quickly, his impact could be felt early, especially in tight games where shorthanded goals swing momentum.

What does this mean for the Michigan pipeline?

Eernisse joins a growing list of Wolverine alumni in Columbus, including Zach Werenski, Adam Fantilli and Kent Johnson. The continued flow of Michigan talent underscores the strong scouting relationship between the two programs and hints at more pipeline talent arriving in future seasons.

The signing adds a fresh face to a roster that needs depth, and fans will be watching closely to see if "Big Ern" can translate his college success to the NHL stage.