Drue Chrisman, a punter known for his tenure with the Cincinnati Bengals, has been navigating the uncertain waters of NFL free agency since being cut in August 2023. With a journey peppered with tryouts and releases, Chrisman’s quest to secure a spot on an NFL roster has taken him to multiple teams, including a notable recent tryout with the Washington Commanders on August 13.
Despite a solid performance in 2022, where Chrisman averaged an impressive 42.6 net yards per punt—ranking 10th overall in the league that year—his path has been anything but smooth. After his release from the Bengals, Chrisman seized an opportunity to play for the Birmingham Stallions in the UFL, only to be released a month later in May after stepping in for the injured Colby Wadman.
Tryout with the Commanders
Chrisman’s tryout with the Commanders seemed promising. In a YouTube video released five days post-tryout, Chrisman offered a candid glimpse into his experience. The video captured the moment when a Commanders assistant coach informed him that the team did not plan to extend an offer:
“The Commanders legal team apparently called up Chrisman and asked him to delete it,” a source reported. Despite the pressure, Chrisman decided to keep the video online, showcasing his determination to maintain transparency with his audience.
The Commanders' reaction contrasted sharply with another NFL team, the San Francisco 49ers, where Chrisman had a similar tryout earlier in the month. The 49ers did not take any issue with the content Chrisman shared.
Transition from Bengals
Chrisman’s journey exemplifies the challenging landscape for NFL free agents. Despite formidable statistics with the Bengals, his release in August 2023 marked the beginning of an arduous search for a new team. The decision by Cincinnati remains somewhat surprising given Chrisman’s performance, which had placed him in the upper echelon of NFL punters.
Free Agency Challenges
Navigating free agency in professional sports can be incredibly taxing. Chrisman’s experiences with the Commanders and the 49ers illustrate the unpredictable nature of tryouts, while his stints with both NFL and UFL teams highlight the difficulties players face in maintaining consistent employment. Chrisman remains undeterred, persevering in his efforts to return to the NFL spotlight.
As Chrisman continues his quest, his transparency and willingness to share his journey offer a rare and honest look into the life of a professional athlete striving for stability. Whether documenting interactions with coaching staff or dealing with legal pressures, Chrisman's open book approach sets him apart and resonates with fans who appreciate his authenticity.
In a professional sports world often characterized by polished PR statements and guarded interactions, Chrisman’s journey and his decision to keep the video online despite the Commanders' request act as a testament to his integrity and resilience. For Drue Chrisman, the path back to the NFL remains uncertain, but his unwavering determination continues to inspire.
