"NoScript" assumes you use something that's not Chrome or Chromium-based, and not Apple. IOW a vanishingly small user-base item like Firefox. AFAIK NoScript is only available as an extension for Firefox and related browsers like Pale Moon and Waterfox. Market share seriously sub-5%. By blocking scripts the site devolves to text only - so if you need pictures it may not be what you want. Those using Chrome, Edge, or other Chromium-based browsers (about 95% of the Windows market), even with an ad blocker, are pretty much hosed when presented with a paywalled site like the Merc: pay up or go home.

NoScript, btw, also helps if you get blocked by the SF Chronicle's paywall. However, some web sites are coded to work only with Chrome (e.g. Sac Bee) - so avoid them unless you're willing to pay.