Chrisman's NFL Journey: Trials, Tribulations, and Transparency
Chrisman's NFL Journey: Trials, Tribulations, and Transparency
Drue Chrisman, the former Cincinnati Bengals punter, has had an eventful year marked by trials with multiple NFL teams, showcasing a gritty determination to secure a spot in professional football. Chrisman, who spent part of the 2022 season with the Bengals, was released in August 2023, propelling him into a relentless pursuit of a new NFL opportunity.
After being cut from the Bengals, Chrisman embarked on a journey to prove his worth, undergoing tryouts with various national football teams. Among these was a tryout with the Washington Commanders on August 13. Five days later, Chrisman released a video detailing his experience with the Commanders, providing fans an inside look into the world of an NFL hopeful.
In the video, Chrisman included a particularly poignant moment: an interaction with a Commanders assistant coach informing him that the team didn't plan to sign him. This level of transparency, although appreciated by many fans, stirred unease within the Commanders' organization.
"The Commanders legal team apparently called up Chrisman and asked him to delete it," a source disclosed. Despite the pressure, Chrisman chose to keep the video up, asserting his right to share his personal journey and experiences. This move highlights the fine line athletes must walk between transparency and adhering to team policies.
Chrisman’s open approach wasn't a first; earlier in the month, he had released a similar video documenting his tryout with the San Francisco 49ers. Interestingly, the 49ers did not react to Chrisman's shared content in the same manner as the Commanders, suggesting differing levels of tolerance and media strategy across NFL teams.
During his time with the Bengals in 2022, Chrisman showcased his skills by averaging 42.6 net yards per punt, placing him 10th overall in the league for that year. Despite these impressive stats, Chrisman found himself without a team, leading him into the uncertain waters of free agency.
In an attempt to secure playing time and stay in form, Chrisman signed with the Birmingham Stallions of the United Football League in April. However, this stint was short-lived as he was released in May after filling in for injured punter Colby Wadman. This brief engagement with the Stallions underscored the volatile nature of professional sports, where job security is often fleeting.
As Chrisman continues to search for a new team, his story is a testament to the resilience and determination required to make it in the competitive world of the NFL. While the path remains fraught with challenges, Chrisman's commitment to his craft remains unwavering.
This journey not only underscores the rigorous demands placed on professional athletes but also opens a window into the often-unseen struggles faced by those on the fringe of NFL rosters. Chrisman's choice to document and share his experiences provides a raw and authentic glimpse into the life of a professional athlete fighting to keep his dream alive.
As of now, Chrisman remains a free agent, with the sports world watching to see where his next opportunity may arise. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the highs and lows that define a professional athlete's career, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that drives them.
