It turns out Greg Schiano thought about stepping down as New England Patriots defensive coordinator weeks before he actually did.

Contrary to what many fans think, Schiano took his time in making his decision, per NFL Network National Insider Ian Rapoport (via Patriots Wire's Henry McKenna).

When you talk to people close to the situation, they say a couple of things. First of all, this is something that Schiano has been mulling for the past two weeks or so, so the Patriots have been aware of this.

(Patriots head coach) Bill Belichick has been aware of this and he said in his statement, Bill Belichik did, that this is something he supports, essentially Schiano stepping away from the football field to focus on a family situation.

The Patriots never formally introduced Schiano as their new defensive coordinator. His hiring reportedly took place in February. He replaced Brian Flores, who accepted the Miami Dolphins' offer to become their head coach.

New England released an official statement from Schiano regarding his resignation on March 28.

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I have informed (Patriots owner) Mr. (Robert) Kraft and Coach Belichick that I am stepping down from my position at the Patriots. This is not the result of any one event, but rather a realization that I need to spend more time on my faith and family.

I don't want to look back years from now and wish I had done things differently. Therefore, I am taking time away from the game to recalibrate my priorities.

Belichick also issued his own statement on the Patriots' official website on Thursday.

I respect Coach Schiano greatly and appreciate his contributions to our staff and team. He is a friend who we support completely.

Schiano's departure leaves a massive void at defensive coordinator for New England. According to ESPN New England Patriots reporter Mike Weiss, Schiano's departure “could lead Belichick to take on more defensive coordinator-type responsibilities in 2019.”

Prior to his short stint with the Patriots, Schiano was the head football coach of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights from 2001 to 2011. He then coached the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2012 to 2013. He had an overall win-loss record of 11-21 (.344) with the Bucs.