Coughlin originally said it was his idea to “step down” as Giants coach, but suggested the team made the decision for him in a radio interview on Tuesday.

Former New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin had said it was his idea to “step down” from his position when the move was first announced, but suggested the team made the decision for him in a radio interview on Tuesday.

“Hey, do I agree with the move? Of course not,” Coughlin told Jay Mohr on Fox Sports Radio. “I don’t. It hurts. It hurts. Former is not a good word. I don’t like the word but, nevertheless, that’s the way it is.”

In his original statement on his departure, Coughlin said he thought it was best for the team if he moved on and that he was not saddened by the change.

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“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 January. “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.”

Coughlin had led the Giants to two Super Bowl victories in 12 seasons as head coach before he left the team in January. Offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo was hired to replace him.

Despite his disagreement with his removal as coach, Coughlin said he has maintained a professional relationship with Mara, the Giants president and CEO.

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“My relationship with Mr. Mara is the same it’s always been,” Coughlin said. “Very respectful, very professional, very, very proud to be a Giant all these years.”

Coughlin confirmed to Mohr that he had met with the Philadelphia Eagles about becoming their head coach, but that he had felt a partnership was not going to work. The Eagles ultimately hired Chiefs offensive coordinator Doug Pederson.

- Erin Flynn