San Francisco, CA – August 11, 2025 — A surprising twist hit the San Francisco 49ers’ training camp when a standout rookie abruptly walked off the practice field after discovering that a later draft pick is earning a larger contract.
The decision stunned both teammates and coaches, especially given the rookie’s impressive showing in the team’s preseason win over the Denver Broncos, where he led the defense in tackles and drew praise from the coaching staff.
That rookie is linebacker Kalen DeLoach, a fifth-round selection out of Florida State, who signed a four-year, $4.61 million deal with $413,652 guaranteed. His frustration reportedly boiled over after learning seventh-round running back Isaiah Davis has a larger total contract value.
“Skipping practice over a contract? That’s weak. Here in San Francisco, we sweat, grind, and earn our place. We’ve turned down bigger money just to wear red and gold — if you can’t handle that, hand your jersey to someone who will actually fight for it.” veteran linebacker Fred Warner told reporters.
DeLoach’s departure came less than 48 hours after his six-tackle performance against the Broncos, a game that saw him flash the athleticism and coverage skills head coach Kyle Shanahan had praised just days earlier. His walkout has left many puzzled.
Isaiah Davis, the player at the center of the contract comparison, signed a four-year, $5.33 million deal with $233,476 guaranteed. While Davis has shown promise as a pass-catching back, he did not record any notable stats against Denver.
For San Francisco, the episode is an unwelcome distraction as camp enters a critical stretch. Coaches and veterans alike are working to keep focus on preparation, especially with roster cuts looming in the weeks ahead.
Whether DeLoach returns to the field or this marks a turning point in his rookie season remains to be seen. For now, the 49ers’ message is clear — in this locker room, commitment comes before contract disputes.
