Drue Chrisman, a punter who spent part of the 2022 season with the Cincinnati Bengals, has been facing a challenging journey in securing a new NFL job since his release in August 2023. Despite his consistent efforts, Chrisman remains a free agent, offering a candid glimpse into the world of professional football through his social media channels.
Trying Out, Trying On
Chrisman, who showcased his skills with the Bengals by averaging 42.6 net yards per punt—a performance that ranked him 10th overall in the league in 2022—has not found stability in the NFL this year. Cut by the Bengals in August 2023, he has been on a relentless pursuit for another opportunity, trying out with multiple teams over the past 12 months.
Earlier in the year, Chrisman had a tryout with the San Francisco 49ers and shared his experience through a video. The video flew under the radar of the 49ers, who did not react to its content. However, the situation took a different turn with the Washington Commanders.
An Unexpected Response
On August 13, Chrisman was invited to a tryout with the Washington Commanders. Five days later, he released a video detailing his experience, capturing an authentic moment where a Commanders assistant coach informed him that the team doesn't plan to sign him. This candid portrayal of the harsh realities faced by many NFL hopefuls appeared to cross a line for the Commanders.
"The Commanders legal team apparently called up Chrisman and asked him to delete it," a source revealed. Despite their request, Chrisman chose to keep the video online, perhaps resonating with many fans and aspiring athletes who appreciate his transparency and resilience.
A Rollercoaster Year
Chrisman’s journey this year has been tumultuous. Following his release by the Bengals, he found a brief stint with the Birmingham Stallions of the UFL in April. Unfortunately, this opportunity was short-lived, as he was released in May after filling in for the injured punter Colby Wadman.
Undeterred, Chrisman continues to pursue his professional career, using digital platforms to document his experiences. The response to his content is a testament to the thin line athletes must walk between maintaining personal, transparent communication with their audience and adhering to the expectations and regulations set by professional organizations.
As Chrisman remains a free agent, his story is one of persistence and adaptability—a reminder of the challenges faced by many athletes striving for a place within the competitive world of professional sports. His willingness to share his journey, even in the face of legal pushback, highlights both the pressure and passion inherent in the pursuit of professional sports careers. For Chrisman, the next team meeting, tryout, or field goal carries not just the hope of securing a future, but also the weight of an ongoing fight to stay visible and valuable in the sport he loves.