49ers rookie recap: 3 players who impressed most in preseason Week 2

No. 2: 49ers Cornerback Deommodore Lenoir

Since the first week of training camp, 49ers cornerback Deommodore Lenoir has put 49ers fans and coaching staff on high alert that he looks to significantly outplay his draft position.

Drafted out of Oregon in the fifth round, and thought to be more of an exclusive slot corner and possible heir apparent to K’Waun Williams, Lenoir has thus far made a name for himself on the outside for San Francisco.

With fellow corner Emmanuel Moseley on the reserve/COVID list to begin training camp, and with neither presumptive starting cornerback playing against the Chargers, Lenoir was given every opportunity to continue his impressive play.

Lenoir did not disappoint, making several big plays and maintaining his newfound reputation as a shutdown corner.

Lenoir has also shown prowess in both press and off coverage, more than comfortable to get physical in press, but showing the range, decision making and quickness to close on receivers across the field in off-man.

On the Chargers’ first drive, Lenoir made an excellent pass breakup in off coverage, closing as wide receiver K.J. Hill cut in front of Niners rookie safety Talanoa Hufanga. Lenoir quickly identified Chargers quarterback Easton Stick’s read and made up ground quickly to snuff out the would-be first down.

Lenoir was rarely targeted afterward, completely erasing his side of the field on deep routes and making life difficult for receivers to get any separation in the intermediate game, as well.

After two preseason games, Lenoir has been targeted six times, and given up 9 yards on over 100 defensive snaps, resulting in a passer rating allowed of an incredible 0.0, according to Pro Football Focus’ Jeff Deeney:

It’s early, but Lenoir is putting the rest of the league on notice that he will be a major contributor in the 49ers secondary on short notice and a stalwart for years to come.