Drue Chrisman, a punter known for his tenure with the Cincinnati Bengals, has been navigating the tumultuous waters of NFL free agency with determination and resilience. Despite his efforts, securing a stable position within the league has proven to be a challenging endeavor.
A Rollercoaster Year
Chrisman, who notably spent part of the 2022 season with the Bengals, found himself released in August 2023. Since then, he has been fervently trying to secure a new NFL job. His journey has seen him try out for multiple teams over the past year, demonstrating his commitment and desire to remain in the league.
The Cincinnati Bengals initially signed Chrisman, and he delivered a solid performance in the 2022 season by averaging 42.6 net yards per punt, ranking him 10th overall in the league. Despite this impressive statistic, the Bengals decided to part ways with him.
Washington Commanders Tryout
One of the most notable points in Chrisman's journey occurred on August 13, when he was invited to a tryout with the Washington Commanders. His experience was chronicled in a video he released five days later. The video not only documented his tryout but also included a revealing moment where a Commanders assistant coach informed him that the team did not plan to sign him. The transparency Chrisman offered in sharing his experience is indicative of the modern athlete's approach to engaging with fans and the media.
However, this openness came with its own set of challenges. "The Commanders' legal team apparently called up Chrisman and asked him to delete it," one source recounted, highlighting the team's unease with the content. Despite the request, Chrisman decided to keep the video online, standing firm on his right to share his personal journey.
San Francisco 49ers and Contrast in Reactions
Earlier in the month, Chrisman released another video, this time showcasing his tryout with the San Francisco 49ers. Unlike the Commanders, the 49ers did not react to the content Chrisman shared. This stark contrast in responses from two different NFL teams underscores the varying levels of transparency and media strategies employed across the league.
The Birmingham Stallions Stint
In addition to his NFL endeavors, Chrisman also had a brief stint with the Birmingham Stallions of the UFL. Signed in April as a fill-in for injured punter Colby Wadman, Chrisman was released by the Stallions in May, compounding the challenges he faced in securing a permanent position.
Remaining a Free Agent
As of now, Chrisman remains a free agent, navigating the uncertainties of his professional career. His story is one of perseverance and adaptability, reflective of the broader challenges faced by many athletes striving to maintain relevance and secure opportunities in highly competitive environments.
The journey of Drue Chrisman is a potent reminder of the unpredictable nature of professional sports. It is a testament to the resilience required to keep pushing forward, even when the future remains unclear. Whether he finds a new team in the NFL or explores other opportunities, Chrisman's determination and candidness continue to define his path.