Boone Jenner
The captain who became the soul of the Blue Jackets franchise.
Boone Jenner is the defining captain and heart of the Columbus Blue Jackets franchise, widely regarded as its most important player in modern history. Drafted 37th overall (2nd round) in 2010, he has been a constant presence on the ice through the team's rebuilding years and their first true playoff contention, embodying the gritty, blue-collar identity that the club strives to project.
- Draft Position
- 37th Overall (2nd Round) – 2010 NHL Entry Draft
Lore & Background
In 2021, Jenner was named the eighth captain in franchise history, a role he has held with distinction ever since. His tenure includes leading the team through significant roster turnover and coaching changes, providing stability when it was most needed. Jenner's leadership is often described as 'leading by example,' characterized by his ability to score crucial goals in tight games and his reputation for standing up for his teammates.
In Their Own Story
The arena hums with a specific kind of electricity that only exists in the final minutes of a tied game. Boone Jenner stands at the face-off dot, his eyes locked on the referee's hand. The noise fades into a dull roar as he focuses on the puck. He wins the draw, immediately turning it over to set up a play, but before the rush can develop, an opponent crashes into him near the boards. Instead of falling back, Jenner drives forward, absorbing the hit and maintaining possession with sheer force of will. It is a microcosm of his career: no easy plays, just relentless effort that keeps Columbus in every fight.
Reader's Guide
The Boone Jenner Era represents the maturation of the Columbus Blue Jackets from a franchise defined by struggles into one capable of sustained competitiveness. This chapter, spanning over a decade, is characterized by a shift toward defensive responsibility and physicality, qualities Jenner embodies more than any other player. What defines this era is the establishment of a core identity around homegrown leadership. While the team has seen many stars come and go, Jenner remained the anchor, guiding younger players like Zach Werenski and Patrik Laine through their development. His presence allowed the club to maintain a sense of continuity even during turbulent off-seasons. This matters to the club's identity because it proved that Columbus could build a winner from within. Jenner is not just a player; he is the bridge between the franchise's early years and its potential future, proving that loyalty and grit are as valuable as talent in the NHL.
Did You Know?
- Boone Jenner was drafted 37th overall (2nd round) by the Blue Jackets in 2010, making him a key mid-round find for the franchise.
- Jenner is known for his quiet, hard-working demeanor and his willingness to drop the gloves to defend teammates.
- He served as an alternate captain multiple times before being named the permanent captain in 2021.