With Trent Williams' holdout ongoing, the 49ers' second preseason game revealed why his presence on the field is so vital.
All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams' contractual asking price is probably going up by the snap, even as the San Francisco 49ers were only minutes into their preseason Week 2 showdown at Levi's Stadium against the New Orleans Saints.
The Niners opened up on offense, and quarterback Brock Purdy got the start under center despite not playing at all during San Francisco's exhibition opener a week ago against the Tennessee Titans.
Purdy completed one of only three passes, one of them being a throwaway. But, on two of his pass attempts, New Orleans defenders managed to get to him and laid a hit.
Including one on 3rd-and-long where Saints defensive tackle Bryan Bresee knocked Purdy to the ground.
New Orleans regularly overworked San Francisco's swing tackle, Jaylon Moore, on that opening possession. And while Williams likely wouldn't play during the preseason if he had been present, the notable pressure on Purdy that opening series only highlights the point the 49ers need Williams back.
Fortunately, according to the Fox Sports' broadcast of the game, there aren't the "layers" complicating Williams' situation in contrast to wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who requested a trade and is entering a contract year.
Williams is under contract through 2026 and is incurring serious fines by missing preseason games, the equivalent to one week's paycheck each.
The simplicity of meeting Williams' demands is likely to be much easier than dealing with Aiyuk, who has commanded the bulk of attention for the Niners all offseason.
Meanwhile, Purdy just wants his All-Pro left tackle back sooner than later.