Tom Coughlin is stepping down as head coach of the New York Giants.
Coughlin and the Giants confirmed on Monday that the 69-year-old is departing the franchise.
“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,” Coughlin said in a statement. “I strongly believe the time is right for me and my family, and as I said, the Giants organization.”
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Coughlin told the Giants he was stepping down before he was asked if he’d like to return. He is, however, reportedly open to coaching elsewhere.
The move doesn’t come as a surprise, as it had been rumored that Coughlin would be resigning.
Coughlin’s legacy in New York is secure. Despite recent struggles, he’s a two-time Super Bowl champion, and he’ll go down as the second-winningest coach in franchise history. At least one of his players loved him, and he’s probably not alone in that regard. It’s interesting that he’s willing to coach somewhere else, as he could prove an intriguing candidate for several other openings.
As for who will replace Coughlin in New York, it’s too early to tell, but Saints coach Sean Payton would reportedly be very interested in the position.
