The San Francisco 49ers have suspended linebacker De’Vondre Campbell for the remainder of the regular season due to his refusal to enter a game after losing his starting position. General manager John Lynch announced on Monday that Campbell was suspended for three games for conduct detrimental to the team. This decision came after Campbell’s actions were criticized by coaches and teammates as selfish when he declined to play against the Los Angeles Rams. Coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed that Campbell would no longer be part of the team, leaving only the question of whether he would be suspended or released outright.
The team ultimately chose to suspend Campbell, as permitted by the Collective Bargaining Agreement, which allows teams to suspend a player for up to four games without pay for conduct detrimental to the team. Cornerback Deommodore Lenoir expressed disappointment in Campbell’s behavior, calling him a “cancer to the team.” Campbell stands to lose significant earnings during his suspension, including base salary, weekly roster bonuses, and potential recoupment from his signing bonus.
Campbell, who had started 12 of the first 13 games of the season, was benched in favor of Dre Greenlaw, who was returning from injury. When called upon to play during the game against the Rams, Campbell refused, a move that Shanahan described as unprecedented in his coaching career. Several teammates, including Nick Bosa, sensed Campbell’s frustration before the game but chose not to address it to avoid further distraction.
Campbell’s decision to leave the field before the end of the game left his teammates feeling upset and confused. However, Bosa emphasized that this incident does not reflect on the overall team dynamic, describing the locker room as strong and united. Campbell, a seasoned player who joined the 49ers after a stint with the Green Bay Packers, had previously expressed dissatisfaction with his role in Green Bay before being released.
Overall, Campbell’s suspension highlights the importance of team unity and commitment to the collective goals of the organization.
Campbell expressed enthusiasm about joining a new team, looking forward to the opportunity ahead. However, as the season progressed, it became clear that he was not performing at the same elite level that had earned him All-Pro recognition in the past. While there were a few shining moments for Campbell during his time in San Francisco this season, he also faced significant challenges, particularly in areas such as tackling and coverage.
