WASHINGTON (AP) -The Washington Redskins eliminated Steve Spagnuolo on Thursday from their list of candidates to fill their coaching job.

A person familiar with the selection process, speaking to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity, said the New York Giants defensive coordinator and the Redskins agreed he is probably a year or two away from being prepared to become a head coach.

Spagnuolo also felt he could play an important role as the Giants try to repeat as Super Bowl champions, said the person, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the Redskins preferred to keep the details of their search private.

With Spagnuolo off the list, Ron Meeks and Jim Fassel became the favorites to replace Joe Gibbs, who resigned Jan. 8. Steve Mariucci also remained in the running.

Spanuolo left the Washington area Wednesday 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.Copyright © 2005 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. The information contained in the AP News report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press.