Drue Chrisman, a talented punter known for his tenure with the Cincinnati Bengals during the 2022 season, has faced a tumultuous year in his professional career. Chrisman, who averaged 42.6 net yards per punt last season, ranking him 10th in the league, was released by the Bengals in August 2023. Despite being cut, his journey through the NFL landscape has been nothing short of eventful.
Struggling to Secure a New NFL Home
Since his release, Chrisman has been trying to secure a berth with another NFL team. Over the past 12 months, he has participated in multiple tryouts, including those with the San Francisco 49ers and the Washington Commanders. His efforts to land a new role have been well-documented, thanks in part to a series of video diaries he has published online, detailing his experiences during these tryouts.
On August 13, Chrisman found himself in Washington, D.C., vying for a spot on the Commanders’ roster. Five days later, he released a video recounting his tryout experience. This candid behind-the-scenes look granted viewers a unique perspective on the highs and lows of attempting to make an NFL team.
Contentious Video with the Commanders
The video includes a particularly poignant moment when a Commanders assistant coach informs Chrisman that the team does not intend to sign him. This raw depiction of the rejection faced by many in professional sports resonated with many viewers, but not everyone appreciated the transparency.
The "Commanders legal team apparently called up Chrisman and asked him to delete it," according to one source. Despite the team's request, Chrisman chose to keep the video online, citing the importance of his journey and transparency in the process. The Commanders' response stood in stark contrast to the reaction from the 49ers, who did not contest the similar video Chrisman released earlier in the month, highlighting his tryout experience with them.
Brief Stint with the UFL
Amid his attempts to stay in the NFL, Chrisman had a brief stint with the Birmingham Stallions of the United Football League (UFL) in April. Unfortunately, this too was short-lived. He filled in for injured punter Colby Wadman but was released in May once Wadman recovered.
Determination and Resilience
Chrisman remains a free agent, navigating the uncertain waters of professional sports. His persistence and resilience, however, are evident. Through his candid video diaries, he has brought to light the often unseen trials and tribulations faced by athletes striving to make it into the elite ranks of the NFL.
While his future in the league remains uncertain, Drue Chrisman's unwavering dedication to his craft and his willingness to share the unvarnished reality of his journey have earned him a measure of respect both within and outside the NFL community. Whether he signs with a new team or not, his story is a testament to the tenacity required to pursue a career in professional sports.