# Columbus Blue Jackets roster and contract developments

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/columbus-blue-jackets-organizational-changes
> Updated: 2026-09-21T15:56:08.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 3.

The Columbus Blue Jackets continue to navigate significant roster and contract complexities. General Manager Don Waddell has confirmed that negotiations remain ongoing with restricted free agent Adam Fantilli, who has missed training camp while seeking a long-term deal. Reports indicate a potential gap between the player’s expectations, which may reach the “$15 million AAV mark,” and the team’s salary cap constraints.

Trade speculation persists regarding forward Kirill Marchenko. While he is a subject of significant interest, his potential movement is complicated by contract demands and the team’s need to manage cap space for Fantilli. Marchenko may seek a contract in the range of $12 million annually. Other players, including Dmitri Voronkov, have also been mentioned in trade discussions.

On the injury front, the team’s defensive depth may be impacted heading into the regular season after defenseman Dante Fabbro exited a preseason game against the Detroit Red Wings with an upper-body injury.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-21: Columbus Blue Jackets manage contract talks and trade rumors

The Columbus Blue Jackets face contract negotiations with Adam Fantilli and potential trades involving Kirill Marchenko, alongside an upper-body injury to defenseman Dante Fabbro.

10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/columbus-blue-jackets-face-contract-hurdles-with-fantilli-and-marchenko

### 2026-09-14: Columbus Blue Jackets face roster shifts ahead of training camp

The Columbus Blue Jackets head into training camp facing roster transitions and contract uncertainties involving key players Zach Werenski, Kirill Marchenko, and Adam Fantilli.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/columbus-blue-jackets-face-roster-shifts-ahead-of-training-camp

### 2026-08-27: Columbus Blue Jackets announce scouting and training staff changes

The Columbus Blue Jackets have announced major personnel changes, including the promotion of Trevor Timmins to director of amateur scouting and shifts within the team's athletic training staff.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/columbus-blue-jackets-announce-scouting-and-training-staff-changes

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Cite as: Columbus Blue Jackets roster and contract developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/columbus-blue-jackets-organizational-changes