The San Francisco 49ers lost a football game to the Los Angeles Rams, with a score of 12-6. This wasn’t just any game; it felt like a big loss that might change their whole season. Since they lost the Super Bowl in February, things haven’t been going well for them. Instead of being champions again, they’re just trying hard to keep up and maybe get into the playoffs.
Some might say the weather or being tired from playing on a Thursday night made it tough for the Niners. But even with those reasons, this loss was hard to accept. Their defense was strong against the Rams, but their offense couldn’t move the ball at all.
Brock Purdy didn’t play well, and neither did Deebo Samuel or Jauan Jennings. George Kittle seemed like the only one really trying, while the Rams’ defense took control. The 49ers managed only 191 yards in total.
What happened to the Kyle Shanahan we know and love?
A surprising twist came when veteran linebacker De’Vondre Campbell refused to play in the third quarter, saying he didn’t want to go in and heading to the locker room instead. This decision left many scratching their heads.
Kyle Shanahan was straightforward about the situation afterward.
Kyle Shanahan said De’Vondre Campbell told him he didn’t want to play today when he was asked to replace Dre Greenlaw in the third quarter and went to the locker room pic.twitter.com/o16l2bpI5h
— Coach Yac 🗣 (@Coach_Yac) December 13, 2024
Just over a week ago, Diontae Johnson did something similar for the Baltimore Ravens and got suspended for a game. It’s puzzling why players are opting out mid-game, especially when the Niners still had a chance to win.
Campbell’s teammates were not happy. Charvarius Ward questioned why Campbell even bothered showing up and predicted, “he’s probably gonna get cut.”
Here is the whole Mooney Ward exchange on De'Vondre Campbell refusing to go into the game tonight.
— Matt Lively (@mattblively) December 13, 2024
Mooney was brutally honest about a guy who appeared to quit on his team. #49ers | #FTTB pic.twitter.com/CT6zNcC4t1
This incident could be a major setback for Campbell’s career. The 49ers can’t afford such attitudes as they need every player focused on turning their season around.
Timing is everything, and Campbell’s refusal coincided with Dre Greenlaw’s return from injury. Greenlaw’s comeback meant fewer snaps for Campbell, which might have fueled his frustration.
It’s unfortunate for Campbell and adds another dark cloud over the 49ers’ locker room. Whether he gets cut or suspended, action will be taken soon.