Zach Werenski has added his name to Columbus Blue Jackets history after capturing the 2025-26 James Norris Memorial Trophy. He has become the first player in franchise history to win the award as the NHL‘s top defenseman.
The 28-year-old defenseman edged fellow finalists Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche and Rasmus Dahlin of the Buffalo Sabres in one of the most competitive Norris races in recent memory.
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After finishing second to Makar in voting a year ago, Werenski finally claimed the honor following another elite season on the Blue Jackets’ blue line.
“It definitely means a lot to be the first Norris winner in franchise history, and hopefully it’s not for long,” Werenski said. “Hopefully there’s some great D behind me that can win Norrises as well. It’s a great place to play, Columbus. I’ve been there for 10 years, and it does feel special to win one with the Blue Jackets.”
Werenski’s comments reflected both personal pride and his long-term commitment to an organization he has helped define since entering the league in 2016.
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Zach Werenski has become Columbus’ cornerstone defenseman
Werenski’s numbers left little room for debate. He recorded 22 goals and 59 assists for 81 points in 75 games while averaging 26:37 of ice time per night, the second-highest mark in the NHL. He also led all NHL defensemen in shots on goal and multi-point games while finishing near the top of the league in points and even-strength production.
His impact extended beyond statistics. Columbus leaned heavily on Werenski in every situation, and he consistently drove play against top competition. Few defensemen carried a larger workload while maintaining offensive production and defensive responsibility.
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Werenski acknowledged the strength of the competition during the award race.
“You could name five, six, seven more ‘D’ that could easily be deserving of this trophy,” Werenski said about the race. “It’s a great time for defensemen in the NHL and in hockey, and I’m just grateful to be a part of it. I think we all push each other to be better. I know last year when I didn’t win, I was excited for this year. I was excited to be better and push myself, and I feel like we all do that.”
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This award represents more than individual success. Columbus has spent years searching for franchise-defining players, and Werenski has become exactly that. His ability to log heavy minutes, create offense, and anchor the defensive structure gives the Blue Jackets a foundation around which they can build to compete for the Stanley Cup.