In the ever-turbulent career of a professional athlete, Cincinnati Bengals punter Drue Chrisman has found himself navigating a rocky path in recent months. After being cut from the Bengals roster in August 2023, Chrisman has been in pursuit of a new NFL home, a journey filled with trials, rejections, and controversial moments captured on camera.
Search for Stability
Chrisman, who spent part of the 2022 season with the Bengals, is notably remembered for his performance that year, where he averaged 42.6 net yards per punt, securing the 10th spot in the league rankings. Despite this impressive statistic, the Bengals made the decision to release him, leaving Chrisman to explore other opportunities in the league.
Since his release, Chrisman has actively pursued various NFL opportunities, trying out for multiple teams over the past year. In an unorthodox move, the specialist decided to document these experiences and share them via video content, providing fans with a behind-the-scenes look at his quest to secure a roster spot.
Documenting the Journey
One notable tryout occurred on August 13, when Chrisman was invited by the Washington Commanders. In a video released five days later, Chrisman detailed his entire experience, from the initial invitation to the ultimate moment of rejection. The video reached its emotional climax as a Commanders' assistant coach informed him that the team didn't plan to sign him.
The response to this transparent documentation was not without its controversies. Following the video's release, the Commanders' legal team reportedly contacted Chrisman, requesting that he take down the video. The team’s concern over the shared content was evident, but Chrisman stood firm, choosing to keep the video public despite the legal team's strong suggestion. One source close to the situation remarked, "The Commanders legal team apparently called up Chrisman and asked him to delete it."
Contrasting Reactions
This was not Chrisman’s first foray into the realm of tryout videos. Earlier in the month, he had released another video showcasing his experience with the San Francisco 49ers. Interestingly, the 49ers did not exhibit the same reaction as the Commanders, choosing not to address or challenge his documentation publicly or legally.
Short Stints and Free Agency
Despite these setbacks, Chrisman remains determined to continue his professional career. His journey took a brief detour when he signed with the Birmingham Stallions of the United Football League (UFL) in April. Unfortunately, this stint was short-lived as well; he was released by the Stallions in May after temporarily filling in for the injured Colby Wadman.
Chrisman's resolve remains undeterred. As a free agent, he continues to seek opportunities to prove his worth to potential NFL and UFL teams. His documented journey serves not only as a testament to his perseverance but also as a candid look into the challenging life of a professional athlete striving to make his mark.
While Chrisman’s future in the NFL remains uncertain, his transparency and dedication offer an inspiring narrative for both fans and aspiring athletes. His videos provide a rare glimpse into the highs and lows of professional sports, emphasizing the resilience required to navigate such a competitive industry. As Chrisman continues his quest, he'll undoubtedly have the support of a growing audience intrigued by his honest and open approach to chasing his professional dreams.