For San Francisco 49ers defensive back Deommodore Lenoir, every play tells a story. But one moment in particular, his first-career interception, has an extra layer of significance. His first takeaway stands out not just in his football career, but in his journey as a father.
Lenoir, now entering his fifth season with the 49ers after signing a five-year extension through 2029, recently reflected on this special moment during an episode of 'Inside the Play,' presented by Microsoft Surface Pro. Looking back at his first-career interception against the Miami Dolphins, he recalled the emotions tied to picking off quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. After securing the interception, he sprinted toward the end zone and raised the football in the air, a celebration dedicated to his son.
"This was one of those plays that I can look back on in my career and just be happy about," Lenoir said. "Because my son, he was born two months before that. That's why, if you see me at the end, I hold the ball up like I was holding Simba in 'The Lion King.' That was just a little dedication to my son."
Originally selected by the 49ers in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, the young DB made sure to preserve the memory of that interception.
"Yeah, I got that ball in a case with a tag on it, the first one. My first one for my first son."
To watch the full episode of 'Inside the Play' presented by Microsoft Surface Pro featuring Lenoir, click here.
