Drue Chrisman, a devoted punter, has faced a challenging journey in his quest to secure a stable position within the NFL. After spending part of the 2022 season with the Cincinnati Bengals, Chrisman found himself cut from the team in August 2023. Since then, he has been on a relentless mission to find a new NFL home.
Determined Efforts and Unyielding Spirit
Over the past 12 months, Chrisman has tried out for multiple teams, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his professional career. On August 13, he received an invitation for a tryout with the Washington Commanders. True to his transparent nature, Chrisman released a video detailing his tryout experience five days later. The video even included a candid moment where a Commanders assistant coach informed Chrisman that the team wasn't planning to sign him.
Contentious Reaction from the Commanders
Following the release of the video, the Commanders' legal team took action, contacting Chrisman and requesting the removal of the content. "The Commanders legal team apparently called up Chrisman and asked him to delete it," reported a source. Despite this formal request, Chrisman chose to keep the video up, standing by his decision to share his journey candidly with his followers.
Contrast with the San Francisco 49ers
Interestingly, earlier in the month, Chrisman released a similar video showcasing his tryout with the San Francisco 49ers. Unlike the Commanders, the 49ers did not react to the shared content, opting not to engage in any requests for its removal. This divergent response underscores the varying approaches NFL teams take regarding transparency and public sharing by athletes.
Shining Moments and Setbacks
Looking back at his tenure with the Bengals, Chrisman had notable achievements. In 2022, he averaged 42.6 net yards per punt, ranking 10th overall in the league for that year. However, this accolade wasn't enough to secure his position, leading to his release in August 2023.
In a bid to maintain his professional momentum, Chrisman signed with the Birmingham Stallions of the UFL in April. Even though this stint was short-lived, as he was released in May after filling in for injured punter Colby Wadman, it highlighted Chrisman's readiness to seize every available opportunity.
Uncertain Future
As of now, Drue Chrisman remains a free agent, continuing his pursuit of another opportunity in professional football. His journey is a testament to the unpredictable and often harsh realities faced by athletes striving to carve out lasting careers. Chrisman’s persistent efforts, showcased through his transparent documentation of tryouts and experiences, offer a unique and insightful glimpse into the life of a professional athlete continuously fighting for a spot on the roster.
Chrisman's story resonates beyond the statistics, reflecting a deep passion and resilience that drives many athletes. While his future in the NFL remains uncertain, his commitment to his craft and his openness about the process remain commendable. The sports world will be watching to see where Drue Chrisman's journey takes him next.
