SANTA CLARA, Calif. — San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan announced that linebacker De’Vondre Campbell will no longer be a part of the team’s roster after he declined to play following a demotion. Campbell’s refusal came during a tense moment in the team’s 12-6 defeat to the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday night, during which he opted to leave for the locker room rather than join the game.
“We’re assessing how to appropriately address Campbell’s actions,” Shanahan commented on Friday. “What occurred during that game is unacceptable towards teammates, and he can’t expect to remain a part of our team under those circumstances.” He confirmed that Campbell would not continue with the team for the remainder of the season. The 49ers are considering their options, which include a possible suspension for conduct detrimental to the team under the Collective Bargaining Agreement, or outright releasing him, allowing him the chance to join another franchise.
In March, Campbell signed a one-year deal worth $5 million with San Francisco. Until recently, he had started 12 of the first 13 games and played a significant role, contributing to 90% of the team’s defensive snaps. However, his position shifted after teammate Dre Greenlaw returned from an Achilles injury during Thursday’s game.
In the third quarter, when the coaching staff sought to reinsert Campbell due to Greenlaw’s tightness in the Achilles, he declined, an occurrence that shocked Shanahan, who stated he had never faced anything like that during his coaching career. The coach revealed that he had not received any reasoning from Campbell about his decision to abstain from playing.
After walking off the field with a towel over his head, Campbell exited to the locker room before the game concluded. Shanahan clarified that he did not instruct Campbell to leave and was unaware of the motives behind his departure. “Once he decided not to play, I shifted my focus to the players we could rely on,” Shanahan explained.
Campbell’s actions caused frustration and confusion among his teammates. Cornerback Charvarius Ward expressed his disappointment, commenting, “He’s a professional and should have communicated his feelings before the game. His choice was selfish and definitely let the team down, especially when we needed a linebacker.” Ward’s own resilience is notable as he has persevered through personal tragedy this season, having lost his 1-year-old daughter on October 28.
Tight end George Kittle criticized Campbell’s behavior too, labeling it as “stupid” and “immature.” “It’s an individual making a selfish choice, and it’s something I hope never to witness again,” he added.
Campbell had joined the 49ers after his release from the Green Bay Packers in March. Once an All-Pro player in 2021, his performance had declines over the past two years, leading him to voice frustrations on social media regarding his treatment in Green Bay. While Campbell showed flashes of his past talent during the season, his tackling and coverage inconsistencies were evident, ultimately contributing to his downfall with the 49ers.