49ers rising star CB talks trash to Vikings QB Sam Darnold

The Minnesota Vikings got the better of their matchup against the San Francisco 49ers in 2023.

That didn’t stop 49ers cornerback Deommodore Lenoir from talking a little smack to his former teammate and Vikings starting quarterback Sam Darnold.

Lenoir after Thursday’s practice had some fun with the 49ers’ former backup quarterback during an interview in the locker room.

“Me and Sam, we had this connection,” Lenoir told reporters as he raised his hands to mimic catching a football. “He liked to throw the ball to me. So, this week we’re coming. He knows it.”

Lenoir continued with praise of his former teammate.

“I know he’s a talented player,” Lenoir said. “He’s gonna come ready to work. I know how he prepares. He gave us great looks when he played here with us. Just taking over the scout team, he was throwing dimes, so I know it’s gonna have to be tight, sticky coverage.”

Darnold didn’t get to see the field much for the 49ers in 2023, but he started his 2024 in Minnesota with a bang. He earned their starting job out of training camp and completed 19-of-24 throws for 208 yards, two touchdowns and one interception in a 28-6 Vikings win over the Giants.

Minnesota is a tough matchup for San Francisco, and a turnover may swing the game. Even if Darnold is good, the 49ers would love to see Lenoir rekindle that connection with the former 49ers QB to come up with a takeaway.