San Francisco 49ers linebacker De’Vondre Campbell’s time with the team appears to be over. After refusing to play and ultimately quitting during Thursday’s 12-6 loss to the Rams, Campbell is not expected to suit up for the remainder of the season.
On Friday, head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed the incident with reporters, explaining the team was deciding how to proceed. Both a suspension and release were under consideration.
“His actions during the game are unacceptable and not something we can tolerate on this team. We’re working through the process, but we’ll handle the situation appropriately,” Shanahan said.
By Sunday, the 49ers reached a decision.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the team has opted to suspend Campbell rather than release him after his abrupt decision to quit.
De’Vondre Campbell: Suspension vs. Release
Rapoport elaborated on the reasoning behind the team’s decision to suspend Campbell instead of cutting ties entirely.
Releasing Campbell would allow him to sign with another team, potentially even a playoff contender—an outcome the 49ers want to avoid.
“Suspending Campbell keeps him from going through waivers and prevents him from joining another team,” Rapoport explained.
The suspension effectively puts Campbell in limbo, forcing him to sit out the next three weeks and eliminating any chance of joining a postseason-bound roster. Additionally, suspending him may give the 49ers grounds to pursue part of his $3.35 million signing bonus. While it’s unclear whether the team will file a grievance with the league, they could also aim to recover his 2025 void year cap hit of $2.6 million.
Cutting Campbell outright would also carry financial implications, saddling the team with a $4.5 million dead cap hit. By suspending him, the team avoids that cost and sends a message of accountability.
This decision comes after a reported confrontation between Campbell and 49ers general manager John Lynch.
Fox Sports insider Jay Glazer revealed that Lynch, known for his composed demeanor, directly confronted Campbell after learning he refused to enter Thursday’s game.
The 49ers are now working with the league to impose a “max suspension” on Campbell, according to Glazer.
Why Did Campbell Quit?
The reasons behind Campbell’s decision to walk out remain unclear, but speculation points to two potential factors.
One theory is frustration over being benched in favor of Dre Greenlaw. Campbell had been performing well, earning Pro Football Focus grades of 75.5 and 80.3 in his last two outings. Despite his solid play, Campbell knew his role as a starter was temporary.
Another possibility involves a financial incentive. Before Thursday’s game, Campbell had participated in 90% of the team’s defensive snaps. Maintaining that rate for the remainder of the season would have triggered a $500,000 bonus. However, by refusing to play, his snap percentage dropped to 83%, jeopardizing the incentive. If Campbell misses the final three games, it could cost him $560,000 in total.
Ultimately, Campbell’s decision to quit rests squarely on his shoulders. The 49ers bear no responsibility for his forfeited bonus, and Campbell must now face the consequences of his actions—a season-long suspension.
