By Jacqui Reed

Former Collingwood and Carlton player Chris Bryan has been signed by NFL side Tampa Bay as its punter for the coming season.

Bryan departed for the US after wrapping up his AFL career at the Pies last year, and has been training with Green Bay in the hopes of securing a spot with the club.

Bryan was cut from the Green Bay list last week, but has been picked up by Tampa Bay on a three year deal.

Pro-Kick Australia's Nathan Chapman has told SEN Bryan has worked hard to earn his spot in a very competitive industry.

"It's been a long time coming," Chapman said.

"Chris has been over there for six months now. He spent all that time over at Green Bay, only to find out he's not going to be there, and a day later he's the starting punter at Tampa Bay."