Drue Chrisman, a proficient and resilient punter, has navigated a challenging journey over the past year. Known for his tenure with the Cincinnati Bengals during the 2022 season, Chrisman averaged an impressive 42.6 net yards per punt, placing him 10th in the league. However, his path has been anything but consistent since then, as he remains a free agent striving to secure a new NFL position.
Early Career and Recent Struggles
In August 2023, Chrisman faced a setback when the Bengals released him from their roster. Following his release, Chrisman embarked on a relentless quest for a new opportunity, trying out for multiple NFL teams in the hope of continuing his professional career. Despite his outstanding performance in the previous season, the journey has been arduous.
On August 13, Chrisman participated in a tryout with the Washington Commanders. The tryout, like many others he had attended over the past 12 months, held the potential to reignite his career. Chrisman documented this experience in a candid video, published five days later, that provided a rare glimpse into the life of an NFL player fighting for a spot on a team. The video, however, took an unexpected turn when a Commanders assistant coach informed him that the team had no plans to sign him.
The Commanders' Response
What happened next added an intriguing layer to the story. Shortly after the video's release, the Commanders' legal team reached out to Chrisman, requesting that he delete the video. According to one source, "The Commanders legal team apparently called up Chrisman and asked him to delete it." Despite the pressure, Chrisman decided to keep the video up, choosing transparency over compliance.
A Contrast in Reactions
Interestingly, this was not Chrisman's first time sharing such personal insights on social media. Earlier in the month, he had released a similar video following a tryout with the San Francisco 49ers. The 49ers, however, did not respond in the same manner as the Commanders, choosing not to object to the content Chrisman shared about his experience with their team.
A Brief Stint with the Stallions
In addition to his NFL pursuits, Chrisman had a brief tenure with the Birmingham Stallions of the UFL. He signed with the team in April, filling in for the injured Colby Wadman. However, his time with the Stallions was short-lived, as he was released in May.
The Unyielding Spirit of Drue Chrisman
Chrisman's journey is a testament to his unyielding spirit and determination. Despite facing numerous setbacks, he continues to push forward, driven by his passion for the game and his unwavering belief in his abilities. His openness and willingness to share his experiences provide an authentic view of the trials and tribulations faced by athletes fighting to maintain their professional careers.
As Chrisman remains a free agent, the future holds uncertainty. Yet, his track record suggests that he will not be kept off the field for long. Whether it is another NFL team, a return to the UFL, or another league altogether, Drue Chrisman’s journey is far from over.