Albany, N.Y. ? New York Giants co-owner Robert Tisch has been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor.

“We respect the Tisch family wishes for privacy during this tough time,” Wellington and John Mara, the other co-owners, said in a statement. “Mr. Tisch is a fighter, and we are going to support him in this fight. Mr. Tisch and his family are in our thoughts and prayers.”

New coach Tom Coughlin informed the team of Tisch’s illness after the morning practice, the Giants said.

“Very few of us in the organization knew there was any issue with Mr. Tisch,” Coughlin said. “We are very, very upset about the news. The team is upset. Mr. Tisch is a wonderful guy.”

Tisch bought half of the team in 1991 from the Wellington Mara’s nephew, Tim Mara. The 78-year-old is the chairman of Loews Corp. He served as postmaster general of the United States from 1986-88.

“It’s a jolt,” Pro Bowl defensive end Michael Strahan said.