The San Francisco 49ers will be parting ways with linebacker De’Vondre Campbell in the near future. This decision follows Campbell’s refusal to play on Thursday night against the Los Angeles Rams, which sparked strong backlash from his teammates.
“We’re currently figuring out the best way to handle the situation,” stated head coach Kyle Shanahan on Friday, as reported by ESPN. “But as you heard from me yesterday and from our players, his actions during the game are unacceptable and he can’t continue to be a part of our team. We are currently working on the specifics of how to deal with this, but we will address the situation appropriately.”
It’s no surprise that Campbell is no longer welcome in the 49ers’ locker room. By abandoning his teammates, he committed a cardinal sin in football and this decision may have repercussions for him in the future.
Retired two-time All-Pro and 2005 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, Shawne Merriman, believes Campbell’s career might be over.
“I believe his reputation is irreparably damaged. I would be surprised if any team decides to sign him after this season because he will now be seen as unreliable,” Merriman told TMZ Sports.
Even if another team were to take a chance on Campbell — a highly unlikely scenario — he will forever be linked with the term “quitter.”
“I have experienced a lot and seen a lot, and I foresaw the consequences of his actions when he refused to go back in the game. This incident will define his career from now on, regardless of what happens,” Merriman stated.
“There is no coming back from this. It’s unfortunate because one split-second decision can overshadow everything you have achieved in your career.”
Since leaving the field on Thursday night, Campbell has disappeared from the public eye and has not reached out to his teammates or fans. This is the real shame — betraying the trust of the men who believed in you and disappointing the children who looked up to you.
