Blue Jackets make significant roster move to bolster support for Zach Werenski ahead of upcoming NHL season

Last NHL season didn’t end the way the Columbus Blue Jackets had hoped, especially considering the expectations they carried at the start. Looking to turn things around, the team has ensured that a key presence will remain on the roster for the next several years—continuing to work side by side with Zach Werenski to help strengthen the core moving forward.

Head coach Dean Evason can breathe a little easier now, as the team has secured defenseman Dante Fabbro for the next four seasons. The talented blueliner signed a significant contract extension, solidifying his role as a key piece of the Blue Jackets’ plans moving forward.

The news was confirmed through the team’s official X account (formerly Twitter), where a brief but clear message announced the agreement between the player and the Columbus franchise.

“FOUR MORE YEARS OF FABS!, We’ve signed defenseman Dante Fabbro to a 4-year contract extension!,” the Blue Jackets reported via @BlueJacketsNHL.

Dante Fabbro #15 of the Columbus Blue Jackets warms up prior to a game against the New York Islanders at UBS Arena on March 24, 2025 in Elmont, New York.

The contract is worth a total of $16.5 million, carrying an average annual value of $4.125 million. The deal keeps Fabbro in Columbus through the 2028–29 season.

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The importance of the Werenski–Fabbro duo for Columbus

The pairing of Zach Werenski and Dante Fabbro emerged as a cornerstone for the Columbus Blue Jackets’ defense. This partnership allowed Werenski to play a more offensive role, contributing significantly to his strong personal performance during the season.

Their on-ice chemistry provided much-needed stability and reliability for the Jackets, consistently logging major minutes as the team’s primary shutdown and transition pairing. The successful integration of Fabbro into this role made him an indispensable part of the team’s future plans, leading to a long-term contract extension. Their continued development as a duo will be crucial for the Blue Jackets’ defensive strength moving forward.

Dante Fabbro #15 and Zach Werenski #8 of the Columbus Blue Jackets talk during the third period against the Philadelphia Flyers at the Wells Fargo Center on April 15, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Don Waddell places his trust in Fabbro’s talent

Don Waddell, the franchise’s General Manager, is well aware of Fabbro’s talent, which is why he emphasized that keeping him on the roster was essential heading into the future.

“Dante was a great addition to our team last season, and keeping him in Columbus was a priority,” he said via NHL.com. “He is a smart, versatile defenseman who moves the puck very well and can play in all situations. We are thrilled that he will continue to be an important part of our club moving forward.”