New York Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, who interviewed for the Redskins' head coaching job the past three days, has decided to stay in New York.
Spagnuolo was not offered the Redskins job but his agent Bob LaMonte said "it didn't matter because his heart is in New York City."
"The Redskins were great ... it was a great interview," LaMonte said.
The Giants are also giving Spagnuolo a new three-year contract in excess of $2 million per year, which would make him the league's highest-paid defensive coordinator.
"I appreciated Mr. Snyder giving me the opportunity to visit with him," Spagnuolo said. "I have a great deal of respect for him and the Washington Redskins organization. I was happy to have the opportunity to explore that situation, but I am equally happy to be staying in New York and look forward to continued success with the Giants."
With Spagnuolo out of the running, former Giants head coach Jim Fassel emerges as the leading candidate to get the Redskins job.
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.
"Steve is a hard worker who has quickly earned the respect of
the players and coaches," Giants coach Tom Coughlin said. "And he
has earned the consideration he is being given. Needless to say, I
am happy that he will be remaining here."
Chris Mortensen covers the NFL for ESPN. Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.