Drue Chrisman, a talented punter, is no stranger to the ups and downs of a professional NFL career. His journey has recently taken several dramatic turns, shedding light on the challenges players face as they vie for coveted roster spots.
Chrisman had a notable stint with the Cincinnati Bengals during the 2022 season. Averaging 42.6 net yards per punt, he ranked 10th overall in the league, a commendable achievement. However, the NFL is as much a business as it is a sport, and by August 2023, Chrisman found himself without a team as the Bengals decided to cut ties with the punter.
Attempts to Secure a New Home
Determined to secure a new job, Chrisman didn’t waste any time. Over the past 12 months, he has auditioned for multiple teams, hoping to find a new home in the NFL. His efforts included a recent tryout with the Washington Commanders on August 13. Eager to share his experiences and provide a behind-the-scenes look for his followers, Chrisman released a video five days after his Commanders’ tryout detailing the process.
The video offered an unvarnished glimpse into the life of an NFL hopeful, complete with a moment where a Commanders' assistant coach informed Chrisman that the team did not plan to sign him. It's a raw and honest portrayal of the uncertainties players like Chrisman face regularly.
Legal Concerns and Communication
The Commanders’ reaction to Chrisman's video was swift. “The Commanders legal team apparently called up Chrisman and asked him to delete it,” according to one source. Despite the request, Chrisman chose to keep the video online, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and a desire to connect with fans on a personal level.
This wasn’t Chrisman’s first venture into documenting his tryout experiences. Earlier in the month, he had posted a similar video about his tryout with the San Francisco 49ers. Interestingly, the 49ers did not respond in the same manner as the Commanders, highlighting the differences in how teams handle player-created content.
A Brief Detour in the UFL
In his quest to remain active and showcase his punting skills, Chrisman signed with the Birmingham Stallions of the UFL in April. His time with the Stallions was brief but notable. He had stepped in to fill the role for injured punter Colby Wadman but was released by the team in May after serving his temporary stint.
Currently, Chrisman remains a free agent. His perseverance and dedication to the sport are evident as he continues to seek opportunities to prove his worth on the field. For now, his detailed and candid video content serves as a window into the high-stakes world of professional football, providing fans with an intimate look at the trials and tribulations faced by players.
Whether Chrisman will find a new team in the NFL remains to be seen. His story underscores the relentless effort, resilience, and unwavering passion required to succeed in professional sports. Fans and aspiring players alike can glean valuable insights from his experiences, making his journey one to watch closely in the coming months.