The San Francisco 49ers are making some pretty promising moves this season regarding bringing young blood onto the team. They seem willing to change and adjust already in how many playing-time-out opportunities they provide for rookies Malik Mustapha and Renardo Green. Not all of the veterans can say that they are a concerning liability, such as linebacker De’Vondre Campbell.
Although Campbell was brought in against New England in Week 4 temporarily to replace the injured Dre Greenlaw, he just doesn’t seem to have earned the right to be around. The 49ers should reassess this move and let fresh talent take center stage.
Time to Replace Campbell
Campbell was supposed to be a sure thing at the linebacker position; it’s simply not happening for him. Up until this point in the season, he has allowed 17 receptions for 168 yards. His average is 9.9 yards per reception. This really places a target on the back of this player for opposing offenses, as it is infuriating to see him continue giving first downs when the 49ers need him to answer the call.
Campbell’s apparent alternative is rookie replacement Dee Winters. Winters has proven himself to be fast and agile enough to be effective regarding coverage. Unlike Campbell, who looks like a liability on the field, Winters represents potential. Okay, so sometimes he might struggle, but that is the natural part of growing for a rookie. Giving him more snaps will allow the team to assess his capacity and growth trajectory. This is where the 49ers should spend money on youth development rather than holding on to a veteran who has probably already exceeded his peak.
49ers Must Move Forward
Stick with Campbell puts the 49ers in a very fragile position. A strong offensive team like the Kansas City Chiefs will not pass the opportunity to take down Campbell’s vulnerable sides. Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes possess high football IQ, which means the 49ers will be subjected to continuous and deliberate tests from Mahomes by Campbell at the same position if he begins.
Such a mismatch can easily spell out hundreds of points against your team. The 49ers cannot stay stagnant at linebacker next to Fred Warner, who is dealing with an ankle injury, under all circumstances. It’s not just winning games; it sets the basis for tomorrow.
It is only if the 49ers consider this as a transitional year that will really help them to move forward. They have to start paying a lot of attention to the young players and allow the changes that are needed to take place. Campbell should have a minimal role if he is on the roster at all.
They may opt for Tatum Bethune or Jalen Graham after he was re-signed. It is time to give the younger, faster guys a shot and see what they can do. This is part of the future of the franchise: developing the right talent and making smart moves today.
Conclusion
The 49ers need to step out and let De’Vondre Campbell walk. This is no longer mere underwhelming performance; it is a liability. Notably, it is more about setting up a team that has hope and brightness on the side of youth.
There is definitely room for players like Dee Winters in the 49ers, and that’s going to be more exciting and competitive at some point. The change has to be welcomed, and the flourishing of young talents to take over is the order of the day for this franchise. The 49ers have to move on.
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