Blue Jackets Sign College Star Josh Eernisse to Entry-Level Deal

The 24-year-old forward joins the organization after a standout career at the University of Michigan.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 11:30pm

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The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed former University of Michigan forward Josh Eernisse to a one-year, entry-level contract for the 2026-27 season. Eernisse, 24, spent the past three seasons with the Wolverines, where he recorded 20 goals and 44 points in 115 games and was named the NCAA Frozen Four's Elite Scholar-Athlete for his 3.97 GPA.

Why it matters

The signing of Eernisse provides the Blue Jackets with a talented young forward who can contribute at the NHL level. His combination of size, skill, and academic excellence make him an intriguing prospect for the organization as they look to build for the future.

The details

Eernisse, a 6-foot-2, 217-pound right winger, participated in the Blue Jackets' development camp in 2025 after spending two seasons in the USHL with the Tri-City Storm. At Michigan, he helped the Wolverines win the Big Ten Tournament title and earn a berth in the NCAA Frozen Four this past season, during which he recorded a career-high 11 goals and 19 points.

  • Eernisse signed his entry-level contract with the Blue Jackets on April 12, 2026.
  • He spent the past three seasons at the University of Michigan, from 2023-24 through 2025-26.

The players

Josh Eernisse

A 24-year-old forward who spent the past three seasons at the University of Michigan, where he recorded 20 goals and 44 points in 115 games and was named the NCAA Frozen Four's Elite Scholar-Athlete for his 3.97 GPA.

Don Waddell

The President of Hockey Operations and General Manager for the Columbus Blue Jackets, who announced the signing of Eernisse to a one-year, entry-level contract.

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What they’re saying

“As we looked at a number of college free agents we identified those that could fill an organizational need and Josh does just that. He is a big, strong right winger who skates well and has great character, and we are excited to welcome him to the Blue Jackets.”

— Don Waddell, President of Hockey Operations and General Manager, Columbus Blue Jackets

What’s next

Eernisse will join the Blue Jackets' American Hockey League affiliate, the Cleveland Monsters, on a professional tryout contract as he looks to earn a spot on the NHL roster for the 2026-27 season.

The takeaway

The signing of Josh Eernisse represents a savvy move by the Blue Jackets to add a talented, well-rounded forward prospect to their organization. Eernisse's combination of size, skill, and academic excellence make him an intriguing addition as the team looks to build towards the future.