After 12 NFL seasons and two Super Bowl titles, Tom Coughlin has decided to step down as head coach of the New York Giants.
In a statement released by the team Monday, Coughlin said, “I met with (Giants owners) 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 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.
Coughlin is one of 13 coaches to win multiple Super Bowls, and one of 19 coaches with a perfect Super Bowl record. He is one of three coaches to lead the Giants to a Super Bowl, and joins Hall of Famer Bill Parcells as the only coaches to win it.
“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.”
The news caused a wave of sadness throughout the Giants facility on Monday. Eli Manning, the team’s franchise quarterback, had to choke back tears when he addressed the only NFL head coach he’s ever played for.
“He definitely has not failed these players,” Manning said of Coughlin. “We failed him.”
