In a team filled with Pro Bowlers and All-Pro players, it’s easy for lesser-known talents to get overshadowed. Deommodore Lenoir, the San Francisco 49ers‘ cornerback, is one such player who’s been quietly developing into a crucial piece of the team’s defense. Despite not yet being a household name, Lenoir’s performance in 2023 and his impressive showing at training camp have positioned him as one of the most underrated players on the 49ers roster—a status that’s bound to change soon.
Lenoir, drafted in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft with the 172nd pick, is entering the final year of his rookie contract. This season presents a pivotal moment for him as he eyes a major payday while also chasing a Super Bowl title with the 49ers. But Lenoir isn’t just aiming for a contract extension; he’s determined to establish himself as one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL.
“I feel like I’m at the point where I’m trying to be one of the top guys in the NFL as far as the corner position, the nickel position, just somewhere in the top where a lot of people start to recognize me and remember my name,” Lenoir said recently, reflecting on his journey.
Lenoir’s rise from a fifth-round pick to a key contributor for the 49ers has been a process of steady growth and adaptation. At the University of Oregon, Lenoir earned multiple All-Pac-12 honors, showcasing his physical gifts. However, when he arrived in San Francisco, his transition to the NFL proved challenging. Although injuries to other corners gave him a starting role early in his rookie year, his playing time dwindled by the postseason.
The turning point for Lenoir came after his rookie season when he realized that his physical talents alone wouldn’t be enough to excel at the professional level. Veteran safety Tashaun Gipson Sr.’s arrival during the 2022 preseason was a wake-up call. Gipson’s disciplined approach to film study inspired Lenoir to take his preparation to the next level.
Lenoir spent the offseason in Arizona, where he not only worked out but also took care of his young son, Titan. During this time, he dedicated himself to studying film, focusing on both his own play and that of other top NFL cornerbacks. He watched footage of stars like Jalen Ramsey, Pat Surtain II, and Marshon Lattimore, as well as legends like Darrelle Revis, Champ Bailey, and Richard Sherman. The common thread among these players was their deep understanding of the game, often knowing what an offense would do before the play even started.
To enhance his understanding, Lenoir began using a large mirror in his home to simulate the releases of opposing receivers. He also adopted Gipson’s method of organizing film cut-ups to streamline his study sessions.
“I already got the physical attributes, and I feel like I can play with anybody,” Lenoir explained. “But I felt like when I brought my mind into it, that s— made me more dominant, and I was able to play faster.”
Despite his improved study habits, Lenoir faced another challenge: mastering both the outside corner and slot corner positions. These roles require different skills and mindsets, and Lenoir had to learn to trust his film study and instincts, particularly in the slot, where the game is often played by feel. Veteran cornerback K’Waun Williams, who left in free agency, advised Lenoir to focus on this “feel” aspect, which proved invaluable.
Lenoir’s breakthrough moment came during the 2022 season. In a Week 15 game against the Seattle Seahawks, he recognized a pattern in receiver Tyler Lockett’s route running, leading to an interception—though it was nullified by a penalty. A month later, in the NFC playoffs against the same team, Lenoir’s preparation paid off again as he intercepted another pass intended for Lockett, helping secure a win for the 49ers.
Lenoir’s postseason performance, which included two interceptions and allowing just five catches for 85 yards on 13 targets, solidified his reputation as the team’s most versatile defensive back. His confidence grew, and by the 2023 season, Lenoir had fully embraced his role as both an outside and inside corner.
This growth is reflected in his career stats, which demonstrate his steady improvement. In 2021, Lenoir played 13 games, recording 17 total tackles, 12 solo tackles, and 5 assisted tackles. By 2022, he significantly increased his impact, appearing in all 17 games and contributing 79 total tackles, 54 solo tackles, and 25 assisted tackles, along with one sack and an interception. In the 2023 season, Lenoir continued to elevate his game, matching his 17-game streak with 84 total tackles, 58 solo tackles, 26 assisted tackles, and an impressive 3 interceptions for 49 yards.
These stats not only highlight his consistency but also his ability to adapt and grow in his role. Lenoir’s career totals now stand at 180 total tackles, 124 solo tackles, 56 assisted tackles, 1 sack, and 4 interceptions with a 14.3-yard average per interception return.
One standout moment that encapsulated Lenoir’s growth was a crucial hit on Eagles running back D’Andre Swift during a December 2023 game. The play, which forced an incompletion, marked the moment Lenoir felt fully comfortable playing both positions.
As Lenoir enters the final year of his contract, his stock continues to rise. The 49ers, known for locking up emerging talent before they hit the open market, may soon face a decision on Lenoir’s future. But for now, Lenoir is focused on proving himself on the field, determined to show that he belongs among the NFL’s elite cornerbacks.
“I don’t want to go in just thinking about a contract,” Lenoir said. “I’m good where I’m at, and I’m ready to take on the season.”
With his blend of physical ability, football intelligence, and versatility, Deommodore Lenoir is poised to become one of the NFL’s most formidable cornerbacks—and the 49ers’ best-kept secret is about to be revealed to the world.
