The New York Giants are cleaning house, but that doesn't involve the coaching staff. The Giants released veteran linebacker LaVar Arrington released kick returner, linebacker Carlos Emmons, offensive tackle Luke Petitgout, and kick returner Chad Morton. Arrington was considered a disappointment last season after signing a seven year deal for $49 million. He suffered an Achilles injury early in the season, and could only play in six games.

"LaVar's situation is unfortunate because he was just starting to really become a factor in our defense at the time of his injury," said Giants new general manager Jerry Reese said.

The decisions were not easy to make, but the Giants knew they had to head in a different direction after this season's debacle.

"These are difficult decisions," said Giants head coach Tom Coughlin. "But as Jerry and I looked at the roster, they are decisions we felt we had to make as we start to compose our team for the upcoming season."

Petitgout had started in 106 games for the Giants at tackle and guard over the past eight seasons, but missed the team's final seven games due to a broken leg. Getting rid of his contract should allow the Giants to have more flexibility in terms of signing other people for the offensive line.

Emmons was battered by injuries as well, missing 11 games in his past two seasons with a pectoral injury.

Meanwhile, Morton never really provided the Pro Bowl like kick returns that he did when he was with the New York Jets several seasons ago.

With two other players announcing their retirements - running back Tiki Barber and offensive tackle Bob Whitfield - the Giants will have a whole lot of work to do in the offseason.