Breaking: Pending UFA Charlie Coyle Signed to Long-Term Deal

Columbus Blue jackets center Charlie Coyle

In yet another major hit to the free agent market this summer, the Columbus Blue Jackets have re-signed one of the top remaining pending UFAs, Charlie Coyle, to a long-term deal.

Breaking: The Blue Jackets have signed Charlie Coyle to a six-year, $36M contract through the 2031-32 season, the team announced. pic.twitter.com/ERTB3a73SP
— ESPN (@espn) May 12, 2026

Coyle gets a six-year, $36 million contract, for a $6 million AAV, and is now a Blue Jacket through his age 40 season in 2032.

The deal seems a bit surprising, as Coyle had become one of the top potential UFAs on the market, as there is a paucity of legit centers available. Many believe he could have gotten more on the open market.

But insider Elliotte Friedman said on The Fan Hockey Show this afternoon that he's not so sure.

"I have to think that Coyle and his agents had to know what was out there... I think people generally know the market."

Coyle had one of his best seasons in a 14-year career, posting a 20-goal campaign with 58 points in 82 games. He also threw 111 hits, and had a plus/minus rating of +3.

The Blue Jackets still have a few notable pending UFAs that they'd like to get re-signed, including Mason Marchment, long-time captain Boone Jenner, and defenseman Erik Gudbranson.