It's said you can tell the character of a man by the way he treats those who can do nothing for him. That's exactly how ex-Giant Steve Weatherford described Tom Coughlin to FOX Sports after the two-time Super Bowl-winning coach stepped down.
"I think the true measure of a man is how he treats somebody he can gain nothing from, and it was really just the simple things -- how Tom would go out of his way to make people feel special," said Weatherford. "The memories that I'm going to have of Tom as a football coach really kind of pale in comparison to the relationship and the experiences that I had that had nothing to do with football."
Those kinds of words came from all corners on Monday, including Justin Tuck. The former Giants defensive end posted a special tribute to Coughlin on Instagram, choosing a picture of Tuck holding his child with Coughlin looking on in complete joy.
In the caption, Tuck wrote that he chose this specific photo for all of the things he'll remember about Coughlin as a football coach. Including this tribute:
"I will remember you for helping me become a man and challenging all of us to be better husbands and fathers and men."
Here is the full message Tuck included in his Instagram post:
As I sit back and reflect on Coach Tom Coughlin, I remember all the one on ones in your office talking football, game plan, etc. I think back to when I was named captain and I used to try and beat you to the facility. I would get there at 6, you where there. I got there at 530 and you were there. 5 am... I knew I would beat you then.. NOPE YOU WERE THERE. I remember feeling the hood of your car and it was cold. Come to find out there were nights you slept in the office. No one worked harder, no one demanded more and I LOVE YOU for it. I chose this picture for one reason and one reason only. Everyone knows you for your dedication to your team and how intense you are on the football field. But I will remember you for helping me become a man and challenging all of us to be better husbands and fathers and men. You did it the right way Coach. And you might be retiring from coaching but I'm sure this isn't a goodbye. That's not in your nature. #halloffame #5minutesearly#areyoush*ttingme
Featured Image: Head coach Tom Coughlin of the New York Giants congratulates Andre Williams #44 as he comes back to the bench against the Philadelphia Eagles at MetLife Stadium on January 3, 2016 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.The Philadelphia Eagles defeated the New York Giants 35-30. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)