WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Washington Redskins have eliminated Steve
Spagnuolo from their list of head coaching candidates.

A person familiar with the selection process tells The Associated Press that the New York Giants defensive coordinator and the Redskins agree that he is probably a year or two away from being prepared to become a head coach.

The person, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the Redskins prefer to keep details of their search private, says Spagnuolo also feels he can play an important role as the Giants try to repeat as Super Bowl champions,

With Spagnuolo crossed off the list, Ron Meeks and Jim Fassel are the favorites to replace Joe Gibbs, who unexpectedly resigned on January 8th. Steve Mariucci also remains in the running.

Spagnuolo left the Washington area last night after more than 16 hours of talks over two days at owner Dan Snyder's house. He became a hot coaching commodity during the Giants' championship run, which culminated with their 17-14 Super Bowl upset of the New England Patriots, even though he had been a coordinator for only one season.