Drue Chrisman, a seasoned punter who spent part of the 2022 season with the Cincinnati Bengals, has found himself navigating the tumultuous waters of NFL free agency. After being cut by the Bengals in August 2023, Chrisman's journey to secure a new position in the league has been marked by a series of tryouts and a notable social media controversy.
The Road to Redemption
Chrisman’s professional career saw a promising stint with the Bengals where he averaged 42.6 net yards per punt, ranking 10th overall in the league in 2022. Despite his solid performance, the Bengals released Chrisman as they made roster adjustments in August 2023. Since then, Chrisman has been on a determined quest to find a new team, trying out for multiple teams across the league over the past 12 months.
A Tryout with the Washington Commanders
On August 13, Chrisman was invited to a tryout with the Washington Commanders. The opportunity was a beacon of hope for the free agent, eager to prove his worth and earn a spot on an NFL roster once again. However, the tryout did not go according to plan. In a candid moment captured on video, a Commanders assistant coach informed Chrisman that the team did not plan to sign him. This moment was later shared publicly by Chrisman, offering fans a rare behind-the-scenes look at the harsh realities of professional sports.
Legal Controversy
The video, posted five days after the tryout, did not sit well with the Commanders' legal team. "The Commanders legal team apparently called up Chrisman and asked him to delete it," one source reported. Despite the request, Chrisman chose to keep the video up, standing by his decision to share his experience with his followers. The situation highlighted a growing tension between athletes’ desire to document and share their personal journeys and the often-guarded nature of professional sports organizations.
A Different Reaction from the 49ers
This wasn’t Chrisman’s first foray into documenting his tryout experiences. Earlier in the month, he released a similar video showcasing his tryout with the San Francisco 49ers. Interestingly, the 49ers did not react to Chrisman’s content in the same way as the Commanders, opting not to request the removal of the footage. This discrepancy in reactions underscores the varying levels of media openness and control exercised by different NFL teams.
A Brief Stint in the UFL
Besides his NFL endeavors, Chrisman briefly signed with the Birmingham Stallions of the UFL in April. His time with the team was short-lived; he filled in for the injured punter Colby Wadman but was released in May once Wadman returned to action. Following this, Chrisman returned to the pool of free agents, continuing his search for a stable position in professional football.
The Ongoing Journey
Despite the setbacks and controversies, Chrisman's journey is a testament to his resilience and determination. Remaining a free agent, he continues to pursue opportunities in the NFL, holding onto the hope that his next tryout will lead to a more permanent role. His story resonates with many aspiring athletes, offering a transparent look at the dedication and challenges faced by professional players behind the scenes.
As Chrisman navigates his career, it remains to be seen how his transparency and willingness to share his journey will influence his standing with future teams. In an era where social media and personal branding play a significant role, his approach could either serve as a trailblazing example for other athletes or a cautionary tale of the fine line between transparency and professional discretion.