The San Francisco 49ers have enjoyed more success than almost any other NFL franchise since John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan took over as the general manager and head coach. In eight seasons with this tandem at the helm, the 49ers have eight playoff wins and two Super Bowl appearances.
While the players certainly get a majority of the credit for their performances on the field, Shanahan has proven that he can churn out production from almost anyone. Lynch has also shown that he can find talent in every nook and cranny of the NFL Draft.
It is rare for a team to buy and trade their way to a Super Bowl like the Los Angeles Rams did a few years ago. Most of the time, championship rosters are developed through the draft, especially the later rounds, and the 49ers have excelled in this realm since these two came to town.
Deommodore Lenoir was biggest steal of 2021 NFL Draft
During the 2021 NFL Draft, the 49ers found a gem in the fifth round. With the No. 172 overall pick, they selected cornerback Deommodore Lenoir, who has quietly turned into one of the best young defensive backs in the league.
On Monday, Bleacher Report's Damian Parson listed the biggest steals of the 2021 draft ahead of the 2025 NFL season, and to no surprise, Lenoir was the first name mentioned.
"NFL teams typically draft prospects on Day 3 to fill specific roles, to develop and/or to play special teams," Parson wrote. "Most of the time, teams do not expect a fifth-round pick to become a starter. Fast-forward four seasons, and Lenoir has become exactly that for the Niners defense."
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Last season, Lenoir collected 85 tackles, including two for a loss, as well as two interceptions, nine passes defended and a forced fumble. This was his best season yet, but based on Parson's projection, he should only continue to get better.
"Lenoir has improved every season since becoming a starter. His passer rating allowed continues to drop despite maintaining at worst a 17 percent target rate, per NFL Pro," Parson wrote. "He is coming off his best year, having allowed 470 yards on 48 receptions with one touchdown and two interceptions. He added nine pass breakups as well. ... The 49ers drafted and developed a diamond in the rough with Lenoir."
This is not anything that 49ers fans do not already know, as Lenoir has blossomed before their very eyes. However, it is good to know that San Francisco is maintaining a strong reputation around the league despite a down year in 2024.
The 49ers should be back in the thick of the NFC title race this season with a revamped roster and better luck with injuries. It takes late-round gems like Lenoir, however, to push this team over the edge, and the four-year veteran will have a chance to do his part this season.
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