New York Giants offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride has announced his retirement from the NFL.

“It’s hard to say, ‘It’s time,’” Gilbride said via the Giants' official website. "To finally do it, it’s a very unnatural feeling. I knew this was it and I was going to do it. I finally pulled the trigger. But it’s difficult.”

Gilbride oversaw a struggling offense this season, but had many good moments during his decade with the Giants.

“I have great respect for Kevin and Debbie and their family, so it’s not an easy thing to part ways,” coach Tom Coughlin said. “Kevin is a professional. He’s been an exceptional football coach for the New York Giants. He helped win two Super Bowl championships. Kevin was the play-caller in Super Bowls XLII and XLVI. He has done a great service to the franchise.”

“Kevin is an outstanding coach who made enormous contributions to this franchise,” said John Mara, the Giants’ owner. “He helped us win a lot of games over the past 10 years, including two Super Bowls. He will be remembered as one of the best coaches to ever represent the New York Giants.”

Added Giants chairman Steve Tisch: “Since Tom elevated Kevin to the role of offensive coordinator, we have added two more Lombardi Trophies to our display case. For that, and Kevin’s tremendous commitment and dedication to his craft and this organization, we will always be grateful.”

“Kevin has been a special person around here for a long time and a very good football coach,” general manager Jerry Reese said. “We are grateful for his years of service with us, especially during the two championship seasons. I wish only the best for him and his family moving forward.”

“I have a tremendous amount of respect and admiration for Kevin,” quarterback Eli Manning said. “I’m really sad to see him retire. He has been with me from day one as my quarterbacks coach and then my coordinator. He really taught me everything I needed to learn to become an NFL quarterback. We’ve had so much success together, obviously winning our two Super Bowls. His offenses have had great success in this league for many, many years. He’s been a great coach and great friend over these 10 years, and I’m definitely going miss him on the field and in the meeting rooms.”

Follow me on Twitter: @RavensInsider

Aaron Wilson covers the Ravens for The Baltimore Sun.