Bob McElligott’s tenure ends as Blue Jackets shift to TV-radio simulcast

After 17 seasons behind the microphone, Bob McElligott disclosed that the Columbus Blue Jackets chose not to extend his contract, effectively ending his role as the radio voice of the franchise. The organization announced a shift to a simulcast model for the 2026-27 NHL season, broadcasting the television audio feed on its radio stations to streamline costs and create a unified identity. In a heartfelt X message, McElligott expressed gratitude to the team, its owners and especially the fan community known as the #5thLine.

Vice President Marc Gregory highlighted McElligott’s impact on both the airwaves and the community. The new broadcast lineup will feature Steve Mears on play-by-play with former Blue Jacket Jody Shelley, while Dylan Tyrer continues as the radio host. The change comes amid a busy offseason in which the club missed the playoffs for a sixth straight year and dealt with trade speculation involving players such as Zach Werenski and Kirill Marchenko. While the simulcast aims to reduce expenses, some listeners may miss the distinct descriptive style that radio-only calls provide.