Eli Manning is an asset – a rather important one, too.

I know, the Eli bashers have come out to play after a rough performance on Sunday night, but he’s still a franchise quarterback.

It’s time to protect him.

Besides the guard play of Justin Pugh and John Jerry, both of whom are in the top 15 at their position (according to Pro Football Focus), the New York Giants have been battling mediocre play on their offensive line for most of the first five games.

Pro Football Focus Positional Rankings:

Center: Weston Richburg – 27th (68.8)

Left Tackle: Ereck Flowers – 29th (76.4)

Right Tackle: Marshall Newhouse – 45th (68.8)

Right Tackle: Bobby Hart – 56th (52.3)

On the other hand, there is no debate as to who has been the best left tackle in football over the last decade.

It’s Joe Thomas.

Thomas, 31, was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 2007. And since starting his NFL career, he’s never registered a PFF grade below 86.7 in a full season – although he currently has a grade of 84.9 through five games this season.

He’s made the Pro Bowl every year of his career, six times being named a first-team All-Pro.

After the 2016 season, he’s under contract for two more years with a base salary under $9 million each season.

According to OverTheCap.com, he’s the seventh-highest paid player at his position.

So, not only would a team like the Giants be getting one of the game’s best offensive tackles in a potential trade, but they would be getting him for a legitimate bargain, and for multiple years.

It’s something to consider – especially with the Browns seemingly tanking (which could increase the likelihood of him being traded).