The New York Giants have parted company with defensive co-ordinator Perry Fewell.

Despite taking charge of a top 10 unit in 2013, Fewell's defense suffered a number of injuries this season and ended up ranked 29th in yards per game, leaving the Giants with a difficult decision to make.

Following Fewell's departure, head coach Tom Coughlin said in a statement: "The simple fact of the matter is in the circumstance that we find ourselves, change is necessary.

"That may not be the most eloquent way of saying it, but that is what I am confronted with. The hope always is invigoration. You are going to stimulate.

"It is with great deliberation over a lengthy period of time throughout a thorough investigation and evaluation of what went on that I came to the conclusion that change was necessary."

Former Giants defensive co-ordinator Steve Spagnuolo - currently coaching with the Baltimore Ravens - is an early frontrunner to replace Fewell when the team begins its recruitment process.