The San Francisco 49ers’ secondary has been receiving high praise during training camp, with many considering it the best and deepest unit under head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch. One player who agrees with this sentiment is defensive back Deommodore Lenoir, who has been with the team since being drafted in 2021. Lenoir believes that this year’s group is the strongest he has seen since his rookie season.
The talent of the secondary was on full display during Tuesday’s practice. Despite a hot start from quarterback Brock Purdy, who completed his first seven passes, including two deep touchdown strikes, the defense was able to bounce back. Linebacker Fred Warner, along with Ji’Ayir Brown, Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles, George Odum, and Lenoir, all secured interceptions against the first-team offense. Lenoir’s interception was particularly impressive as he returned it for a pick-six.
Lenoir had a breakout season in 2023, recording three interceptions. He had guaranteed the team’s special teams coordinator, Brian Schneider, that he would score a pick-six that year but was unable to fulfill his promise. However, Lenoir’s interception during Tuesday’s practice serves as a reminder that he still has the ability to achieve that feat in the upcoming season.
After a slow start to his NFL career, Lenoir’s breakthrough came during the playoffs in 2022, where he notched two interceptions. He believes that his defining moment came during the 49ers’ blowout victory over the Philadelphia Eagles when he delivered a massive hit on running back D’Andre Swift. This hit gave him the confidence to excel in both outside cornerback and nickelback roles.
Lenoir’s versatility has been an asset for the 49ers during training camp. While he and All-Pro cornerback Charvarius Ward man the outside spots in the base defense, Lenoir shifts to the nickelback position in passing situations. Isaac Yiadom has taken over the outside cornerback duties for the first team in those situations.
Overall, the 49ers’ secondary has shown great chemistry and cohesion during training camp. Lenoir nearly had a second interception during practice, and cornerback Ambry Thomas wrapped up the session with an interception and long return against quarterback Joshua Dobbs. Despite some early struggles, the secondary has proven that they are a force to be reckoned with.
In addition to the impressive performance on the field, Lenoir also had high praise for the 49ers’ assistant head coach, Brandon Staley. Lenoir described Staley as a genius and expressed his respect for him as a coach and a person. He highlighted Staley’s ability to teach and the joy he brings to the team.
With a talented and deep secondary, the San Francisco 49ers are poised to have a formidable defense in the upcoming season. The performance of players like Deommodore Lenoir during training camp bodes well for their success. As the team continues to prepare for the season, they are focused on maximizing their potential and making a strong impact on the field.