The San Francisco 49ers have suspended linebacker De’Vondre Campbell for the remainder of the regular season after he declined to enter a game following the loss of his starting position. The decision to suspend Campbell came after he refused to participate in a game against the Los Angeles Rams, a move that was criticized by coaches and teammates as selfish.
Coach Kyle Shanahan announced that Campbell would no longer be part of the team, with the only question being whether he would be suspended or released outright. The team ultimately chose to suspend Campbell, citing conduct detrimental to the team as the reason.
Under the Collective Bargaining Agreement, teams are allowed to suspend a player for up to four games without pay for such behavior and fine them one week's pay. Campbell, who earns approximately $67,000 in base salary per week, will also miss out on potential weekly roster bonuses of $60,000, with the team possibly seeking to recoup around $111,000 from his signing bonus.
Had the 49ers chosen to waive Campbell, he would have had the opportunity to be claimed or sign with another team. Campbell had started 12 of the first 13 games of the season and played 90% of defensive snaps for the 49ers before being benched in favor of Dre Greenlaw.
During the game against the Rams, when the 49ers attempted to insert Campbell into the lineup due to Greenlaw's injury, Campbell refused to enter the game, a situation Shanahan stated he had never encountered in his coaching career. Campbell's actions left his teammates feeling frustrated and confused, with cornerback Charvarius Ward labeling the behavior as selfish and detrimental to the team.
Ward, who has faced personal tragedy himself this season, emphasized the importance of professionalism and commitment to the team. Despite Campbell's past success as an All-Pro player, his performance had declined in recent seasons, leading to his release from the Green Bay Packers earlier this year.
While Campbell had shown flashes of potential with the 49ers, his struggles with tackling and coverage had been evident throughout the season. The team's decision to suspend him reflects their commitment to upholding team values and discipline.
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