Four unsung heroes that have helped the 49ers thrive

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — In the San Francisco 49ers’ star-studded galaxy, it’s hard for young, unproven players to get their due.

It’s even more difficult when one of those established stars unintentionally sabotages those efforts. Take the case of Niners cornerback Deommodore Lenoir, an emerging player who has worked his way up the depth chart to become one of the team’s most fearless and reliable defenders this season.

Lenoir has played well for most of the past two seasons but could be more of a household name were it not for defensive end Nick Bosa. In December 2022, Lenoir had a pick-six wiped away because Bosa drew a penalty for roughing the passer. In last week’s win over the Seattle Seahawks, Lenoir had an interception nullified by an offsides penalty on Bosa.

After the win, Bosa apologized for denying Lenoir the additional shine he’s earned.

“I love Demo so much,” Bosa said. “I should get him a gift. A Christmas gift. I need to step up my shopping.”

While presents may have to wait, there’s no denying that Lenoir has emerged as one of the Niners’ most consistent defenders. Ask around the Niners locker room about which players aren’t getting enough credit for the team’s 10-3 record and Lenoir’s name is sure to come up.

“There’s a lot of great players on this team, so it’s hard to get noticed,” Lenoir said. “But I kind of don’t pay attention to it and I just do my one-eleventh and try to be the best person I could be for this team.”

On a team with All-Pro and Pro Bowl talents such as Bosa, receiver Deebo Samuel, left tackle Trent Williams, tight end George Kittle, running back Christian McCaffrey and linebacker Fred Warner, Lenoir isn’t alone in quietly making a difference.

Others, such as guard Aaron Banks, cornerback Ambry Thomas and punter Mitch Wishnowsky are playing at high levels in their own right and will be integral if the Niners are to make a run at the franchise’s long-coveted sixth Lombardi Trophy. The next step in that journey will be Sunday at the Arizona Cardinals (4:05 p.m. ET, Fox).