San Francisco 49ers cornerback Deommodore Lenoir, a former fifth-round pick out of Oregon, has secured his place among the NFL’s elite cornerbacks with a significant contract extension. On Tuesday, Lenoir agreed to a five-year, $92 million extension with the 49ers, as reported by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. The new deal elevates him into the league’s top tier of cornerbacks, making him one of only 12 players at his position earning a salary above $15 million, according to OverTheCap.
Lenoir’s journey to this lucrative payday is particularly unique. Initially, he was an outside cornerback with no experience in the slot, but last season, the 49ers shifted him to a slot cornerback role. Despite the challenges of adapting to a new position and his size — Lenoir is one of the NFL’s heavier corners at 200 pounds — he quickly excelled, displaying a mix of speed and physicality that brought stability to the 49ers’ defense. In his breakout season, he racked up 84 combined tackles, defended 10 passes, and secured three interceptions, marking him as a versatile defensive asset.
A clip shared by Yahoo Sports NFL highlighted Lenoir’s aggressive playing style, with the caption, “DEOMMODORE LENOIR OMG 😳,” emphasizing his physical prowess on the field. His size and presence in the middle of the defense have made him a standout performer in the slot corner position, where he has utilized his bulk and instincts to shut down some of the NFL’s best receivers.
Last season, Pro Football Focus ranked Lenoir as the 23rd-best cornerback in the league, and while he has slid to 41st this season, his performance remains highly regarded. The contract extension solidifies his role within one of the NFL’s most talented rosters, adding yet another star to the 49ers’ lineup.
However, the 49ers’ season hasn’t been without its struggles. They currently hold a 5-4 record, placing them a half-game behind the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC West, partly due to injuries that have impacted their depth. Lenoir’s continued presence will be crucial as they push for a stronger finish to the season.
For Lenoir, this new contract represents a monumental achievement. From earning second-team All-Pac-12 honors in college to becoming one of the NFL’s highest-paid cornerbacks, his rise has been remarkable. The 49ers, recognizing his impact and potential, have invested in his future, ensuring he remains a cornerstone of their defense for years to come.