Drue Chrisman, a former Cincinnati Bengals punter, has been navigating the challenging landscape of securing a new position in the NFL since being released in August 2023. Despite his efforts and impressive stats, including a commendable average of 42.6 net yards per punt in 2022, which placed him 10th in the league, Chrisman's path has been anything but smooth.
Turbulent Times
Chrisman’s journey took an interesting turn early this month when he was invited to a tryout with the Washington Commanders on August 13. Excited by the opportunity, Chrisman documented his experience and shared it with his followers in a video five days later. However, this move did not sit well with the Commanders' legal team, who promptly contacted Chrisman and urged him to remove the video.
"The Commanders legal team apparently called up Chrisman and asked him to delete it," a source revealed. Despite the pressure, Chrisman decided to leave the video up, maintaining that his intention was merely to provide a transparent look at his journey, not to stir controversy.
A Series of Tryouts
Chrisman’s openness about his experiences isn’t new. Earlier in August, he posted another video showcasing his tryout with the San Francisco 49ers. Interestingly, this video did not elicit a similar response from the 49ers. The contrasting reactions from the two teams highlight the varied approaches NFL organizations take towards media and transparency.
While his candidness has sparked legal concerns, it is clear that Chrisman’s priority remains securing a roster spot. Over the past year, he has tried out for multiple teams, demonstrating his continued commitment and resilience in the face of uncertain prospects.
Brief Stint in the UFL
Chrisman also ventured into the United Football League (UFL) during this turbulent period. In April, he signed with the Birmingham Stallions, stepping in for injured punter Colby Wadman. However, his stint with the Stallions was short-lived, as he was released in May after Wadman’s recovery. This brief engagement reflects the ongoing challenges Chrisman faces in establishing a stable position within professional football.
Awaiting the Next Opportunity
As of now, Chrisman remains a free agent, persistently seeking the next opportunity to prove his worth on the field. His determination and transparency offer a unique lens into the often-hidden struggles professional athletes face in maintaining their careers. While his journey has been fraught with setbacks, Chrisman continues to push forward, undeterred.
The unwavering drive that has characterized Chrisman’s career, coupled with his willingness to share his experiences openly, makes him a figure worth watching. Whether or not his next opportunity comes from the NFL or another league remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Chrisman’s journey is far from over.