The 49ers had been dealt several injuries blows to their offense before Sunday, including quarterback Trey Lance and running back Elijah Mitchell. They might be adding one of the best players in the NFL to that list.
Left tackle Trent Williams had to exit Sunday night's game against the Broncos with an injury. During a play in which quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo lost track of where he was and inadvertently stepped out of the back of the end zone for a safety, Williams was injured as a defender fell on his right leg. The 49ers went on to lose the game 11-10.
SAFETY! Jimmy G steps out of the back of the end zone. #FTTB #SFvsDEN on NBC and @peacock. pic.twitter.com/dMFD89e6zH
— Sunday Night Football on NBC (@SNFonNBC) September 26, 2022
Losing offensive linemen is always a major blow, but there is arguably no better lineman in the NFL than Williams. He was the top-rated offensive lineman by PFF in 2021 and second in 2020. He has graded out as the No. 12 offensive tackle in 2022. He was also only one of two offensive players to join the 99 club in Madden 23.
MORE: Broncos' late touchdown helps edge 49ers on 'Sunday Night Football'
Here's the latest on his injury.
Trent Williams injury update
Williams left the field after suffering what 49ers team reporter Lindsey Pallares said was an ankle injury. He did not return to the game.
#49ers injury update: LT Trent Williams (ankle) is out.
— Lindsey Pallares (@lindseylares) September 26, 2022
Williams had to be helped off after D.J. Jones fell on his right leg in the third quarter.
Trent Williams left the field after being rolled up on pic.twitter.com/h8sD3ZWG5r
— 49ers on NBCS (@NBCS49ers) September 26, 2022
MORE: Garoppolo steps all over the end line for a safety, Dan Orlovsky rejoices
Colton McKivitz came in to replace Williams at left tackle.
The difference without Williams in the game was immediately noticeable. The Broncos sacked Garoppolo twice without Williams on the line and were able to apply more constant pressure
The 49ers' offensive line has been solid to start the year, grading out as fourth-best in pass-blocking efficiency, according to PFF. The loss of Williams would test the unit greatly, particularly on the QB's blind side.