As the San Francisco 49ers navigate the final stretch of their season, head coach Kyle Shanahan has openly admitted the team made a significant misstep in free agency. While reflecting on the signing of linebacker De’Vondre Campbell, Shanahan’s candid remarks come during a turbulent time for the franchise, as both on-field struggles and locker room tension threaten to derail their playoff hopes. Campbell, signed in March to fill the void left by Dre Greenlaw’s Achilles injury, was expected to solidify the 49ers’ defense. Over 12 games, Campbell recorded 79 tackles while playing 90 percent of defensive snaps. However, his decision to sit out during last week’s game against the Rams sparked controversy, leading to his suspension for the remainder of the season.

“I was with De’Vondre his rookie year in Atlanta, so I knew what he was capable of,” Shanahan said. “Not that I was real close with the defensive guys, being the offensive coordinator there, but I know we liked him in that building. I know a lot of guys who have coached him who have been good.

“And we obviously made a mistake. It’s not something that we didn’t look into. We look into everything. You weigh the risk-reward of stuff.” The fallout from Campbell’s actions has extended beyond the coaching staff, with cornerback Deommodore Lenoir labeling him a “cancer to the team.”

Related: 49ers Cut Struggling Third-Round Pick Now sitting at 6-8, the 49ers must win out and receive help across the NFC to keep their slim playoff hopes alive as they currently sit fourth in the hunt for the final Wild Card spot. San Francisco faces another uphill battle in Week 16 as they head to Miami to take on a Dolphins team also vying for postseason contention. Amid distractions, the 49ers must rally behind their veteran leaders to overcome adversity and keep their season alive.