The journey of Drue Chrisman, a free-agent punter who once played for the Cincinnati Bengals, has been anything but predictable over the past year. Earning a spot on the Bengals' roster for part of the 2022 season, Chrisman demonstrated his capabilities by averaging 42.6 net yards per punt, ranking him 10th overall in the league that year. However, the road has been rocky since his release in August 2023.
From Bengals to Free Agency
The Bengals decided to cut ties with Chrisman in August 2023, leaving him to navigate the challenging waters of securing a new NFL job. Determined to get back on the field, Chrisman has been actively trying out for various teams over the past 12 months. His persistence illustrated the harsh realities and the competitive nature of life as an NFL free agent.
Tryout Experiences
On August 13, 2023, Chrisman was invited to a tryout with the Washington Commanders, an opportunity that raised his hopes of returning to professional play. Eager to share his experiences and perhaps also to provide insight into the life of a professional athlete, Chrisman released a video detailing his tryout experience five days later. This decision, however, brought unforeseen consequences.
The video gained attention not just among fans but also within the Commanders' organization. It included a candid moment where a Commanders assistant coach informed Chrisman that the team did not plan to sign him, offering a raw glimpse into the realities behind team decisions. The transparency appeared to have crossed a line for the Commanders. "The Commanders legal team apparently called up Chrisman and asked him to delete it," reported a source close to the situation. Despite this request, Chrisman decided to keep the video online, standing firm on his right to share his personal journey.
Contrasting Reactions from Teams
Interestingly, this was not the first time Chrisman had shared tryout footage. Earlier in the month, he posted a similar video showcasing his tryout with the San Francisco 49ers. Despite the insightful and behind-the-scenes nature of the content, the 49ers did not react in the same way as the Commanders. The varied responses from different teams highlight the divergent approaches NFL organizations take regarding player media activities.
Stint with the Birmingham Stallions
The road didn't end with NFL tryouts for Chrisman. In April, he signed with the Birmingham Stallions of the United Football League (UFL). His tenure with the Stallions was short-lived, as he was released in May after filling in for injured punter Colby Wadman. Although his time in the UFL was brief, it demonstrated Chrisman's willingness to explore opportunities outside the NFL and continue honing his skills.
The Uncertain Future
As of now, Drue Chrisman remains a free agent, navigating the uncertainties of a professional sports career. His journey over the past year reflects both the unpredictability and resilience required to sustain a career in professional football. Whether another NFL team takes a chance on him or he finds a berth in another league, Chrisman’s experiences offer valuable insights into the challenges faced by athletes fighting to keep their dreams alive.