Charlie Coyle Signs New $36M Blue Jackets Contract, Full Details Released Ahead of NHL Free Agency

The Columbus Blue Jackets announced Tuesday they signed center Charlie Coyle to a six-year, $36 million extension.

"Charlie made a tremendous impact on and off the ice for us last season and keeping him in Columbus was a priority," general manager Don Waddell said. "He is the definition of a true pro, and a durable, reliable, productive right-shot center whose leadership, character and consistency are extremely valuable in this league.  We are thrilled that he will continue to be a very important part of the Columbus Blue Jackets for years to come."

Six years is a relatively long term for a player who will be 34 when the 2026-27 season starts.

But Coyle was one of the better forwards slated for free agency this summer. after finishing with 58 points (20 goals, 38 assists). Bleacher Report's Lyle Richardson listed him eighth overall in his March FA rankings. Because it's not a marquee destination, Columbus also has to pay a higher premium for talent.

As a result, Coyle was in an advantageous position in negotiations with the Blue Jackets.

The new contract is particularly notable given what coach Rick Bowness said after the team faded at the finish line and missed the playoffs.

Bowness laid into the squad and its effort, and he told reporters he'd be "changing this freaking culture" if he returned to the bench. With the 71-year-old back for at least one more season, it's fair to expect some reshuffling to the roster.

In the case of Coyle, however, both Bowness and Waddell saw somebody who will be crucial to instilling a different mentality within the franchise.