Niners Suspend De’Vondre Campbell Three Games After LB Refused to Enter Loss to Rams
The San Francisco 49ers have suspended linebacker De’Vondre Campbell for three games without pay for refusing to enter Sunday’s 24-9 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, the team announced Monday.
Campbell, who is in his second season with the 49ers, was reportedly upset with his playing time and role in the defense. He was seen arguing with defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans on the sideline during the game.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday that Campbell’s suspension was “for conduct detrimental to the team.” He added that Campbell had apologized for his actions and that the team was moving forward.
“De’Vondre is a good player and a good person,” Shanahan said. “He made a mistake, and he’s paying the price for it. We’re going to support him and help him get back on track.”
The suspension is a significant blow to the 49ers’ defense. Campbell is one of the team’s best tacklers and playmakers. He had 145 tackles, two sacks, and three interceptions in 17 games last season.
The 49ers will now be without Campbell for their next three games, against the Carolina Panthers, New Orleans Saints, and Kansas City Chiefs. They will likely start Fred Warner and Dre Greenlaw at linebacker in Campbell’s absence.
Background on Campbell’s Refusal to Enter Game
Campbell’s refusal to enter the game against the Rams came after he had been benched for the start of the second half. Ryans had inserted rookie linebacker Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles into the lineup in Campbell’s place.
Campbell was reportedly upset with the decision and refused to enter the game when Ryans called his number. He was seen arguing with Ryans on the sideline, and eventually walked away from the team.
Shanahan said Monday that he was unaware of any issues between Campbell and Ryans before the game. He added that he had spoken to Campbell about the incident and that Campbell had apologized.
Impact of Campbell’s Suspension on 49ers Defense
Campbell’s suspension is a major loss for the 49ers’ defense. He is one of the team’s most versatile and productive players. He can play all three linebacker positions and is a key part of the team’s pass rush and run defense.
The 49ers will now have to rely on Warner and Greenlaw to fill the void left by Campbell. Warner is a Pro Bowl linebacker, but he is coming off a season-ending injury. Greenlaw is a talented young player, but he is still developing.
The 49ers’ defense has been one of the best in the NFL in recent years. However, Campbell’s suspension could make them more vulnerable to opposing offenses.
Conclusion
The 49ers’ suspension of De’Vondre Campbell is a significant development. Campbell is one of the team’s best players, and his absence will be felt. The 49ers will now have to rely on Warner and Greenlaw to fill the void left by Campbell.
It remains to be seen how the 49ers will perform without Campbell. However, they will need to find a way to replace his production if they want to remain one of the top teams in the NFC.