San Francisco 49ers

Corey Lemonier's improved footwork could make for a breakout season

Published Jun. 25, 2015 6:56 p.m. ET

foxsports

San Francisco 49ers linebacker Corey Lemonier was not pleased with his play last season. Thanks to linebackers coach Jason Tarver, who broke down film of Lemonier, he thinks he found the answer to his problems.

“J.T. pointed out that I would take false steps so many times,” Lemonier said of his pass-rushing get-offs, via 49ers.com. “It led to a lot of bad plays.”

Now that Lemonier knows the issue, he is working extremely hard this offseason on his footwork to correct those negative steps he was taking.

Head coach Jim Tomsula has taken notice of Lemonier this offseason and is very impressed with what he has seen so far out of his third-year linebacker.

“He's really doing well, and I'm excited for Corey, I am,” Tomsula said. “Any young guy that works so hard, too, you know? He's coming along. He's doing a great job with knowing the defense, and he's bending and moving, you can see there. You're watching the same thing I'm seeing. He can get off the rock."

Lemonier knows he still has a long way to go, but is doing everything he can in camp to earn himself playing time this season.

“I'm still always trying to get better, but I feel a lot more comfortable, especially with this defense,” Lemonier said.

(h/t San Francisco 49ers)