From All-Pro linebacker to a mid-season suspension, the turbulent career of De'Vondre Campbell.
In short: De'Vondre Campbell rose from a fourth-round draft pick to become the first Packers inside linebacker named to the All-Pro first team since 1966. Yet, his professional journey took a sharp turn in 2024, ending in a season-long suspension after a controversial refusal to enter a game for the 49ers.
Born on July 1, 1993, De'Vondre Campbell began his professional career after being selected 115th overall by the Atlanta Falcons in the 2016 NFL draft. His early years were defined by steady growth; he started as a weakside linebacker and eventually transitioned to the strongside. By 2017, he was a fixture in the Falcons' defense, starting all 16 games and recording 92 combined tackles. His tenure in Atlanta included a high-stakes appearance in Super Bowl LI, where the team suffered a narrow overtime defeat to the New England Patriots.
Campbell’s career reached its zenith after he signed with the Green Bay Packers in 2021. That season, he became a defensive cornerstone, earning NFC Defensive Player of the Month honors in October and securing a spot on the 2021 All-Pro first team. This achievement marked a significant milestone, as he was the first Packers inside linebacker to receive the honor since Ray Nitschke in 1966. His performance led to a five-year, $50 million contract extension in 2022, during which he also recorded his first NFL touchdown—a 63-yard interception return against the Washington Commanders.
The trajectory of his career shifted dramatically following his move to the San Francisco 49ers in 2024. Initially brought on to provide depth and cover for injured players like Dre Greenlaw, Campbell’s stint ended in discord. During a Week 15 game against the Los Angeles Rams, Campbell refused to enter the field when called upon, subsequently leaving for the locker room. Head coach Kyle Shanahan publicly condemned the action, stating it was unacceptable behavior for a teammate. Consequently, on December 16, 2024, the 49ers suspended Campbell for the remainder of the season, marking a stark conclusion to his time with the organization.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: De'Vondre Campbell
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