49ers’ Deommodore Lenoir Criticizes Suspended Teammate for Refusing to Play: ‘Lost All Respect’

Deommodore Lenoir, cornerback for the San Francisco 49ers, has publicly criticized his teammate De’Vondre Campbell following Campbell’s suspension for refusing to enter a game last week. The 49ers imposed a three-game suspension on Campbell after the incident, which has stirred significant controversy within the team.

Speaking on the matter on Monday, Lenoir did not hold back when asked about his thoughts regarding Campbell’s actions.

“When he first signed, I thought we were adding another guy who could bolster our defense and contribute,” Lenoir told NBC Sports Bay Area. “For him to do something like that, I’ve lost all respect.”

De’Vondre Campbell, brought into the team midseason as a reinforcement while linebacker Dre Greenlaw recovered from a torn Achilles suffered during the Super Bowl, became the center of attention when he refused to take the field during the 49ers’ game against the Los Angeles Rams last Thursday.

While Greenlaw returned to the field in that game, he experienced discomfort in his Achilles during the third quarter, prompting the coaching staff to call on Campbell. To the shock of the team, Campbell declined to enter the game.

Reflecting on the situation, Lenoir expressed disbelief, saying, “It’s crazy to walk away from your team when we’re in the trenches. I would never pull something like that. I love this game too much and have too much pride to ever tell a coach I’m not going in.”

Lenoir emphasized his personal dedication to the game and his team, adding, “I give 110% every single game. If I’m injured and the guy behind me doesn’t step up or outright refuses to play, I see that as cancer to the team.”

The timing of this incident comes during a turbulent season for the San Francisco 49ers, who had entered the year with high expectations following key re-signings, including Christian McCaffrey and Brandon Aiyuk. However, the turmoil from the offseason seems to have carried over, with injuries and internal conflicts derailing their campaign.

Currently sitting at 6-8, the 49ers face the grim possibility of missing the playoffs for the first time since 2020. The team’s once-promising season has taken a sharp downward turn, with mounting losses and now internal strife threatening their cohesion and morale.

Campbell’s refusal to play has become a flashpoint for frustration within the locker room. For veterans like Lenoir, who have prided themselves on their work ethic and commitment, the incident is a glaring example of misplaced priorities.

As the 49ers fight to salvage what’s left of their season, the fallout from this controversy could have lasting effects on the team’s culture and chemistry. With only a handful of games left, the organization must find a way to regroup and address the lingering issues that have plagued their season.

This episode serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability and teamwork in professional sports. For the San Francisco 49ers, the road ahead is steep, but their ability to overcome these challenges will determine whether they can finish the season with dignity or let it spiral further out of control.