Zach Werenski is a distinguished NHL defenseman who plays for the Columbus Blue Jackets. He emerged from a supportive family background, displaying his talent through the United States National Team Development Program. After a successful college hockey stint at the University of Michigan, he was drafted 8th in 2015. With 384 career points, he is celebrated for his elite defensive skills, earning recognition as a Norris Trophy finalist in 2025. Uncover more about his path and impact on the ice.
Early Life
Zach Werenski is a professional hockey player who highlighted his talents early in life with the United States National Team Development Program. This experience allowed him to refine his skills in a highly competitive environment.
He later attended the University of Michigan, where he had a standout freshman season, recording 25 points in 35 games. His performance continued to improve during his sophomore year, as he amassed 36 points in 36 games.
This impressive track record contributed to his selection as the 8th top pick in the 2015 NHL Draft by the Columbus Blue Jackets. Furthermore, Werenski exhibited his leadership abilities by serving as the team captain for the USA at the IIHF World Junior Championship in 2016.
Family Life
Zach Werenski grew up in a close-knit family that has been a considerable influence on his hockey path. His brother also played hockey, which encouraged a competitive atmosphere at home.
The family places a high value on education, leading Zach to choose college hockey at the University of Michigan before entering the NHL.
Throughout his career, the steadfast support of his family, including his parents and brother, has been vital in his development both as a player and an individual.
Career
Zach Werenski was selected 8th in the 2015 NHL Draft and made his NHL debut with the Columbus Blue Jackets on October 13, 2016.
Over the course of his career, he has played 567 games, amassing 113 goals and 271 assists, totaling 384 points. In the 2024-25 season, he excelled by scoring 59 points in just 55 games, averaging an impressive 26:45 minutes of ice time per game, which was the highest in the NHL.
His outstanding performance earned him a spot as a finalist for the Norris Trophy in 2025, highlighting his status as one of the league’s elite defensemen.
Furthermore, Werenski has set franchise records for goals, assists, and points by a defenseman for the Columbus Blue Jackets, solidifying his legacy within the team.
Net Worth
Zach Werenski’s net worth is estimated at $15 million, primarily from his NHL salary and endorsements. He signed a six-year contract extension with the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2019, worth $57.5 million.
Throughout his career, his annual salaries have included $9.5 million for the 2023-24 season, $7.5 million for the 2022-23 season, $6 million for the 2021-22 season, $5 million for the 2020-21 season, and $4.5 million for the 2019-20 season, positioning him as one of the top-earning defensemen in the league.
Furthermore, Werenski has garnered income through numerous sponsorships and partnerships in the sports industry, further contributing to his net worth.
With his recognition as a Norris Trophy finalist in the 2024-25 season, his performance on the ice may lead to future lucrative contracts and endorsements, potentially increasing his financial success.