49ers news: Deommodore Lenoir steps up this time in the JSN matchup

It’s a battle of great defenses as the San Francisco 49ers take on the Seahawks. And the 49ers may be without a key receiver. However, 49ers cornerback Deommodore Lenoir has backed off a bit, taking the high road this time regarding the matchup against Jaxon Smith-Njigba after last year’s beef, according to a post on X by Nick Wagoner.

“#49ers CB Deommodore Lenoir was (mostly) diplomatic when asked about the Seahawks and potential matchup with WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba. ‘I look forward to every matchup,’ Lenoir said. ‘I’m not going to try to put this one above the others. He’s a great player, lots of respect, but winning between the lines is a competition. Always.’ ”

In last year’s first meeting, Smith-Njigba roasted the 49ers for nine catches and 124 yards. In the rematch on Week 18, Smith-Njigba had 84 yards on six receptions. He did not score a touchdown in either game.

49ers defensive backs on high alert

Despite the tough challenge, Lenoir said he feels ready to rock, according to NBC Sports.

“It’s always an honor to play against the team that won the Super Bowl, and just see where you are as a team,” Lenoir said. “This game is about competition. We have to compete.

“I look forward to every match. I wouldn’t try to put this one more than the other. He’s a great player. A lot of respect. Between the lines, it’s competition. Always.”

Of course, the 49ers have revenge on their minds. The Seahawks beat them to the tune of 41-6 in the playoffs last season.

The 49ers no doubt remember that game, according to The Athletic.

“It goes without saying,” said safety Malik Mustapha. “Everybody knows what it is. Everybody knows the thinking that goes into it. We don’t like them, and we have to get after it and get the job done.”

But 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan says it’s different.

“I see two different teams,” he said. “I know we’re a very different team now, and I don’t want to attribute a lot of things to last year.”