Brad Larsen is the front-runner to succeed John Tortorella as head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets, reports The Athletic's Aaron Portzline.

The 43-year-old Larsen has been with the organization since his playing career ended in 2010. He worked with the AHL's Springfield Falcons for four years (two as assistant coach, two as head coach) before serving as an assistant with the Blue Jackets for the last seven seasons.

Larsen reportedly has "significant support" from the Jackets' dressing room, and general manager Jarmo Kekalainen is "relying heavily on input from the players' leadership group" in his hiring choice, according to Portzline.

Gerard Gallant, Rick Tocchet, and Larsen have all interviewed twice for the job.

Larsen played in 294 games across eight seasons, winning a Stanley Cup in 2001 with the Colorado Avalanche.

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