De’Vondre Campbell’s NFL future just got a crazy twist. Ryan Clark dropped a blunt verdict on the linebacker after his unexpected exit against the Los Angeles Rams. Campbell left his teammates hanging in the second half, leaving questions about his commitment and toughness.
Now, with this unexpected departure sparking debate, former champions are weighing in with no-nonsense opinions about Campbell’s status in the league. Is he a liability or a comeback story waiting to happen? Either way, it’s clear: Campbell’s path forward in the NFL will need to be reshaped with scrutiny, grit, and redemption.
Ryan Clark Slams De’Vondre Campbell’s Future
Campbell’s NFL career is under intense scrutiny after his unexpected departure in the second half against the Rams. Ryan Clark, ESPN analyst and former Steelers Super Bowl champ, didn’t hold back on “Get Up,” delivering a no-nonsense take on Campbell’s future.
Clark pointed out that Campbell’s value isn’t just about past All-Pro accolades or on-field performance. It’s about locker room leadership and integrity. He emphasized that Campbell should be aiming to prove his commitment not only to the 49ers but to every GM across the league — like Mike Tannenbaum, who’s evaluating players for teams in New York or Miami.
“You also miss the fact that if I’m De’Vondre Campbell, I’m not only playing to show that I can be a valuable part of the San Francisco 49ers, I’m playing so I can show to Mike Tannenbaum, who may be over in New York or who may be over in Miami, that I can be a valuable piece to their locker room, that it’s not just about my former All-Pro years and what I can do on the grass, it’s about the leadership that I could provide in the locker room,” Clark said.
.@Realrclark25 did not mince words on 49ers LB De'Vondre Campbell refusing to play and leaving the game early vs. the Rams 😯 pic.twitter.com/24DDVf5Wjx
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) December 13, 2024
Clark said Campbell should be showing that he’s a leader with “some sort of football integrity, some sort of football character.” In simple terms, it’s about Campbell being the guy who builds trust.
Clark didn’t stop there. He called out the LB’s lack of emotional commitment to the 49ers’ locker room, contrasting him with Dre Greenlaw, a player who’s already earned deep respect among teammates. “He has no deposits into the 49ers’ emotional bank account; Dre Greenlaw has all of those deposits,” Clark said. “In my opinion, as a brotherhood, he should never play again; why would you want him on your team?”
Ultimately, Clark’s message is clear: NFL teams don’t just need talent; they need players who bring loyalty, grit, and emotional commitment. Campbell now faces a crucial test — not only to regain his on-field prowess but to earn back that locker room trust before any team will take a chance on him again.
Campbell’s Commitment Under Fire After Missing Key Moments
Campbell’s commitment is being questioned after skipping the third quarter against the Rams. Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed Campbell “didn’t want to play” during crucial moments. Signed in March to fill the void left by Greenlaw’s Achilles injury, Campbell’s absence frustrated teammates.
Kyle Shanahan revealed that De'Vondre Campbell didnt want to play in the 3rd quarter.
The TNF crew share their thoughts on the situation. pic.twitter.com/8lcK1tkGTT
— NFL on Prime Video (@NFLonPrime) December 13, 2024
George Kittle called Campbell’s decision “ignorant” and “stupid,” blasting him for letting the team down. “It’s hard to win football games when someone doesn’t want to play football,” Kittle said. Cornerback Charvarius Ward also shared his disappointment, echoing the locker room’s frustration.
Ultimately, Campbell now faces the uphill task of rebuilding trust.