The San Francisco 49ers’ struggles continued in Week 15, suffering a 12-6 loss to the Los Angeles Rams in a game that highlighted mounting issues both on and off the field. Amid the team’s fourth loss in five weeks, head coach Kyle Shanahan made headlines with sharp postgame comments about linebacker De’Vondre Campbell, who declined to enter the game during the third quarter.

Shanahan: “He Doesn’t Want to Play Football”

When asked about Campbell’s absence during critical moments, Shanahan did not mince words:
“Yeah, he said he didn’t want to play today,” Shanahan stated. “That’s somebody who doesn’t want to play football, it’s pretty simple. I think our team and myself, we know how we feel about that, so I don’t think we need to talk about him.”

The comments sparked widespread reaction on social media, with many fans expressing frustration and disappointment.

Fan Backlash

Fans flooded social media with sharp criticism of Campbell, a 2021 All-Pro linebacker playing his first season with the 49ers after previous stints with the Atlanta Falcons, Arizona Cardinals, and Green Bay Packers.

• “It’s gotta be hard babysitting those egos,” one fan wrote.
• “Sheesh, that’s unacceptable. He’s supposed to be a professional,” said another.
• “Looks like there’s about to be one less player on that team soon,” one comment read.
• “This is sad. He shouldn’t get paid!” another fan declared.

A few others kept their criticisms brief but blunt:

• “Soft.”
• “Fired this softer or don’t paid to this softer,” one frustrated fan wrote.

A Quality Player Under Scrutiny

Campbell has been a solid contributor for the 49ers this season, with 79 tackles and two pass deflections. However, his decision to decline playing in Week 15 has placed his professionalism and commitment under intense scrutiny.

Shanahan’s frustration is understandable given the stakes. The 49ers, once seen as NFC contenders, are now rapidly sliding down the standings, and player discord is the last thing the team needs as they fight to salvage their season.

What’s Next for Campbell and the 49ers?

The fallout from this incident raises questions about Campbell’s future with the team. While his track record as a starter is undeniable, his actions in Week 15 might have burned bridges in the locker room and with fans. The 49ers will need to address this issue internally as they prepare for their next matchup.

For now, the spotlight remains on Shanahan, Campbell, and a 49ers squad desperate to regain its footing. Whether this incident galvanizes the team or further fractures it remains to be seen. One thing is clear: the road ahead for San Francisco just got even rockier.