Schiano abruptly leaves position as Patriots DC

Greg Schiano is stepping down as the New England Patriots' defensive coordinator, citing a "need to spend more time on my faith and family."

Schiano announced his decision Thursday in a joint statement with coach Bill Belichick.

"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," Schiano said. "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."

Schiano was hired by the Patriots less than two months ago.

"I respect Coach Schiano greatly and appreciate his contributions to our staff and team," Belichick said in his…