Rick Bowness Expected To Sign Extension With The Columbus Blue Jackets
Bowness had a record of 21-11-5 with Columbus in 25-26.
thehockeynews.comHere’s the latest on Rick Bowness:
- Reports in mid-April 2026 indicated that Rick Bowness was expected to sign a new contract to continue as head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets, with announcements anticipated around that time. This suggested a continuity move after he had guided the team to a stronger midseason stretch.[1]
- In January 2026, there was coverage noting Bowness’ tendency for outspoken, high-energy leadership, which some outlets highlighted as a hallmark of his coaching style during his tenure in Columbus.[3]
- Earlier in 2024, Bowness had been away from duty for a medical procedure with Jets coverage noting his temporary absence and return plans; while not directly about Columbus, it provides context on his health-related absences in recent years.[2]
If you’d like, I can pull the most current headlines from a few reputable outlets and summarize any official statements from the Blue Jackets or Bowness’s representatives, and I can add direct links for further reading. I can also look for any recent video interviews or press conferences to capture his current stance and plans.