De'Vondre Campbell Walks Away from the NFL: "I'm Rich and Never Have to Work Again".
The San Francisco 49ers had a disappointing 2024 NFL season, finishing last in the NFC with a 6-11 record. After reaching the Super Bowl in 2023 and taking a commanding lead against the Kansas City Chiefs before ultimately losing in overtime, the Niners were expected to continue their championship run. However, injuries and inconsistent performances derailed their campaign.
Toward the end of the season, a bizarre story emerged about linebacker De'Vondre Campbell, one that would ultimately mark the end of his tenure with the team and possibly his career in the NFL.
The Strange Incident
During a Week 15 game against the Los Angeles Rams, Campbell refused to play in the third quarter. Despite pressure from his teammates and coaches to rejoin the field, Campbell walked off the sidelines and made his way to the locker room. The 49ers promptly suspended him for the rest of the season. Given that Campbell was on a one-year contract, this incident signaled the likely end of his time with San Francisco—and perhaps his NFL career altogether.
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While his actions were puzzling to many, Campbell later revealed his simple reason for the walkout in a series of social media posts. The linebacker made it clear that, while his decision might seem unusual, his motivations were rooted in financial independence and a sense of fulfillment beyond football.
Campbell's Career Earnings and Contracts
De'Vondre Campbell’s career in the NFL began in 2016 when he was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the fourth round of the draft. Over the course of his nine-season career, Campbell played for several teams, earning lucrative contracts that allowed him to achieve financial security far beyond the average NFL player.
Atlanta Falcons
Campbell was selected by the Falcons in 2016 and signed a four-year, $2.9 million contract. He spent four seasons in Atlanta, from 2016 to 2019, before moving on to a new opportunity.
Arizona Cardinals
In 2020, Campbell signed with the Arizona Cardinals, where he earned $7 million in a single season, including bonuses and guarantees. His year in Arizona helped him build his reputation as a reliable and versatile linebacker.
Green Bay Packers
From 2021 to 2023, Campbell played with the Green Bay Packers. Initially signing a one-year, $2 million deal, he had a breakout season in 2021, which led to a lucrative five-year, $50 million extension. The extension included a $15 million signing bonus and $15 million in guaranteed money. However, after three seasons with the Packers, the team released him to free up salary cap space, and Campbell walked away with his full signing bonus and guaranteed money, totaling $30 million.
San Francisco 49ers
Campbell joined the San Francisco 49ers in 2024 on a one-year deal worth $5 million, which included a $3.35 million signing bonus and $1.21 million in salary. He started 12 of the first 13 games but was demoted to a backup role after linebacker Dre Greenlaw’s return from injured reserve. When Greenlaw and Dee Winters were sidelined with injuries, Campbell was asked to play in the Week 15 game against the Rams but refused, marking the abrupt end of his time with the team.
Total Earnings: A Rich Career
Over the course of his nine seasons in the NFL, Campbell earned roughly $40 million in total career earnings. After accounting for taxes, agent fees, and other expenses, his net earnings stand at approximately $18 million.
“I’m rich and never have to work another day of my life…I play because I WANT TO,” Campbell stated on social media, offering a candid explanation for his decision to step away from the game.
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He also shared a behind-the-scenes moment, revealing that 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch had FaceTimed him and begged him to join the team just one hour after the Green Bay Packers released him. This gesture reflects just how highly regarded Campbell was within the league, even as he was considering his future.
Retirement at 31
At just 31 years old, Campbell's decision to walk away from the NFL is a surprising one, given his relatively young age and the fact that he still had the talent and ability to contribute on the field. However, his wealth and personal contentment seem to outweigh the lure of continuing his football career.
If Campbell does indeed retire from the NFL after nine seasons, he will do so with significant financial security. Assuming he manages his wealth wisely, the $18 million he netted after taxes and expenses will provide him with more than enough to enjoy a comfortable life beyond football. His move could set an example for others in the league, showcasing that players can prioritize their happiness, financial security, and well-being over the pursuit of career longevity.
A Successful Career and a Bright Future
De'Vondre Campbell’s career in the NFL may have ended under unusual circumstances, but there’s no doubt that he has achieved great success both on and off the field. Earning $40 million over the course of his career, Campbell has positioned himself for a prosperous future, with the freedom to pursue his passions and enjoy life outside of football.
His choice to walk away from the game at a young age reflects a broader trend where players are increasingly focusing on their financial independence and long-term well-being. With a successful career behind him, Campbell’s next chapter is wide open, and his story is an inspiration to others looking to make their own path in life after sports.
