49ers Cornerback Defends Mike Evans After Terrell Owens' Criticism

San Francisco 49ers cornerback Deommodore Lenoir has publicly defended teammate Mike Evans against criticism from NFL Hall of Famer Terrell Owens. Owens, a former 49ers wide receiver, commented on Evans' performance during a recent podcast, calling his play "really average."

"We were watching the game. Mike was playing, Mike Evans, and I was like, ‘Look at his routes.’ I’m like, ‘I can do that. It’s not like he’s blazing speed,’" Owens said, according to a report from the New York Post. "[Evans] just knows how to run routes, knows where to go, and then the quarterback can save you. Like, he was just catching some really average plays."

Lenoir did not take kindly to the remarks. He took to Instagram Stories to express his disagreement, writing, "Mannnn noo you cant. Mike 1 of 1 Stop it."

Evans, 33, has been a key player for the undefeated 49ers this season, tallying 420 yards on 27 receptions with three touchdowns through six games. He was reportedly playing with a rib and Achilles injury during the 49ers' game against the Commanders. Evans will miss the team's Week 7 matchup against the Falcons due to injury, marking the first game he will be absent this season.

Owens played his first eight NFL seasons with the 49ers.