Tom Coughlin was more than just a coach to the players he worked with -- that much is clear. An outpouring of messages on social media from Giants players erupted after Coughlin announced he was stepping down. It's the end of an era for Giants' football, and the players knew it.
I had the honor to play for a legend. Thank you coach Coughlin
— Justin Pugh (@JustinPugh) January 4, 2016
Been blessed to play for a couple legendary coaches. Thanks Coach Coughlin for everything
— Adam Gettis (@NotOnDuty__) January 4, 2016
TC is an exceptional coach and an even better person. It’s been a honor to play for a HoF coach. Thank you Coach Coughlin
— Geoff Schwartz (@geoffschwartz) January 4, 2016
It has been one of the greatest honors of my life and career to be lead by Tom Coughlin, my life will forever be changed. #legacy #NFL#gmen
— Josh Brown (@Kickingitwith3) January 4, 2016
Coach Tom Coughlin is as an upstanding man as you fill find in the NFL or life. I learned that in just one year. Thank you Coach.
— Marshall Newhouse (@MNewhouse74) January 4, 2016
Honored to have played for a legend. TC will be missed
— Weston Richburg (@westonrichburg) January 4, 2016
Coach Coughlin taught me how to be a professional with respect, class and focus. I am eternally thankful. I'll be at the HOF ceremony.
— Nat Berhe (@NatBerhe) January 4, 2016
Great coach and an even greater man. Thank you TC for everything you have taught me on and off… https://t.co/oGWGOsuoT1
— Markus Kuhn (@themarkuskuhn) January 4, 2016
— Prince Amukamara (@PrinceAmukamara) January 4, 2016
Honored to have called the man coach! #TC
— Bennett Jackson Jr. (@B_Jax2) January 4, 2016
Thank you Tom Coughlin for demanding the very best from myself/teammates every single day. Respect is not given, it's earned #NYG 2xSBChamps
— David Diehl (@davediehl66) January 4, 2016
The realest coach I've ever had the luxury of playing for. It was a true honor to play for a man… https://t.co/b6WJvZ4D8T
— Victor Cruz (@TeamVic) January 4, 2016