Tom Coughlin Steps Down As Giants’ HC, Not Retiring

Update:

Tom Coughlin has released a statement regarding the news that he’s stepping down from the Giants.

“I met with John Mara and Steve Tisch this afternoon, and I informed them that it is in the best interest of the organization that I step down as head coach. I strongly believe the time is right for me and my family, and as I said, the Giants organization.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as head coach of the New York Football Giants. This is a not a sad occasion for me. I have spent 15 years with this organization as an assistant and head coach and was fortunate to be part of three Super Bowl winning teams. A Lombardi Trophy every five years is an achievement in which we all take great pride.

“Obviously, the past three years have not been what any of us expect, and as head coach, I accept the responsibility for those seasons.

“I think it has been evident these last 12 years here how much pride I take in representing this franchise. I am gratified and proud that we were able to deliver two more Lombardi trophies to the display case in our lobby during that time. That is a tribute to our players and staff, and it was truly fulfilling to be the leader of those teams.

“I appreciate the support of John and his family and Steve and his family, and of Jerry Reese and his staff. I think our organization is a great representation of what I mean when I talk about ‘team’.

“Finally, I would be remiss if I did not thank my wife Judy and our four children and their spouses and our 11 (soon to be 12) grandchildren. None of this would have been possible without their unconditional love and support.”

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ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that the Tom Coughlin has informed his coaching staff that the Giants are making a head coaching change.

• According to Schefter, the official word is that Coughlin stepped down as Giants’ head coach.
• Mike Garafolo reports that Coughlin is not retiring, and if the right opportunity were available, he would coach again.

Coughlin met with the Giants’ front office today, and indications were that they were likely to move on and look for a new head coach.

The Giants’ job should quickly become the most attractive job in the NFL, given that their ownership has shown so much support for the coaching staff and front office over the years.

Potential candidates for the position could include OC Ben McAdoo and Saints HC Sean Payton. Although, I’m sure many more names will be linked to the team in the coming days.

Coughlin, 69, is in his 12th season as Giants’ head coach and has led them to a record of 102-90 (53.1 percent) to go along with five playoff appearances and two Super Bowl titles.