Under the new format, the TV broadcast audio feed will be carried on the club’s radio network. David Kirouac / USA Today
July 29, 2026 Updated 5:09 pm EDT
After 17 years as the radio voice of the Columbus Blue Jackets, Bob McElligott will no longer be in the booth in a cost-cutting move by the organization.
The Blue Jackets announced plans on Wednesday to simulcast their TV broadcasts, with play-by-play voice Steve Mears and color analyst Jody Shelley, across their radio network and affiliates.
As a result, McElligott’s contract was not renewed, the club said in a release.
McElligott is one of only two radio play-by-play voices over the franchise’s 25-plus years. George Matthews was the club’s original voice before McElligott joined the organization in 2009, working beside him for five seasons before taking the microphone full-time.
“Bob McElligott has made significant contributions to the Blue Jackets’ organization on the air and in the community over the past 17 years,” said Blue Jackets vice president of broadcasting Marc Gregory in a statement released by the club.
“Bob’s voice was at the heart of many of our club’s unforgettable moments and helped shape memories that will live on for years to come. We sincerely thank him and wish him nothing but success moving forward.”
Dylan Tyrer, who has served as the Blue Jackets’ radio host for the past seven seasons — handling intermission reports, interviews, scoreboard updates, etc. — will continue in that role during radio broadcasts.
Jul 29, 2026
Connections: Sports Edition
Spot the pattern. Connect the terms
Find the hidden link between sports terms
Play today’s puzzle