View source for Albert Haynesworth

{{Short description|American football player (born 1981)}}
{{Use American English|date=May 2023}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=December 2024}}
{{Infobox NFL biography
| name        = Albert Haynesworth
| image       = Albert-Haynesworth-Feb-4-09-090204-N-9758L-030.jpg
| caption     = Haynesworth in 2009
| number      = 91, 92, 95
| position    = [[Defensive tackle]]
| birth_date  = {{Birth date and age|1981|6|17|mf=y}}
| birth_place = [[Hartsville, South Carolina]], U.S.
| death_date  =
| death_place = 
| height_ft   = 6
| height_in   = 6
| weight_lbs  = 350
| high_school = [[Hartsville High School|Hartsville]]
| college     = [[Tennessee Volunteers football|Tennessee]] (1999–2001)
| draftyear   = 2002
| draftround  = 1
| draftpick   = 15
| pastteams   =
* [[Tennessee Titans]] ({{NFL Year|2002}}–{{NFL Year|2008}})
* [[Washington Commanders|Washington Redskins]] ({{NFL Year|2009}}–{{NFL Year|2010}})
* [[New England Patriots]] ({{NFL Year|2011}})
* [[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]] ({{NFL Year|2011}})
| highlights  =
* 2× First-team [[All-Pro]] ([[2007 All-Pro Team|2007]], [[2008 All-Pro Team|2008]])
* 2× [[Pro Bowl]] ([[2008 Pro Bowl|2007]], [[2009 Pro Bowl|2008]])
* Second-team [[List of All-SEC football teams|All-SEC]] ([[2001 All-SEC football team|2001]])
| statlabel1  = [[Tackle (football move)|Total tackles]]
| statvalue1  = 347
| statlabel2  = [[Quarterback sack|Sacks]]
| statvalue2  = 30.5
| statlabel3  = [[Fumble|Forced fumbles]]
| statvalue3  = 6
| statlabel4  = [[Fumble|Fumble recoveries]]
| statvalue4  = 4
| statlabel5  = [[Pass deflected|Pass deflections]]
| statvalue5  = 26 
|pfr=HaynAl20
}}

'''Albert George Haynesworth III''' (born June 17, 1981) is an American former professional [[American football|football]] player who was a [[defensive tackle]] for 10 seasons in the [[National Football League]] (NFL). He played [[college football]] for the [[Tennessee Volunteers football|Tennessee Volunteers football]] and was selected by the [[Tennessee Titans]] in the first round of the [[2002 NFL draft]]. Haynesworth was with the Titans for seven seasons, where he was one of the league's top defensive tackles between 2007 and 2008.<ref name="TSNranking">{{Cite web |date=May 21, 2009 |title=Defensive tackle rankings: Nobody dominates like Haynesworth |url=http://aol.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2009-05-21/defensive-tackle-rankings-nobody-dominates-haynesworth |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240525105646/https://www.webcitation.org/60d0eQRjI?url=http://aol.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2009-05-21/defensive-tackle-rankings-nobody-dominates-haynesworth |archive-date=May 25, 2024 |website=[[The Sporting News]]}}</ref> He received [[Pro Bowl]] and first-team [[All-Pro]] honors during both seasons.

Haynesworth became a highly coveted [[free agent]] after his 2008 campaign, which led to him signing a seven-year, $100 million contract with the [[Washington Commanders|Washington Redskins]].<ref name="easy" /><ref name="BattistaNYT">{{Cite web |last=Battista |first=Judy |author-link=Judy Battista |date=February 27, 2009 |title=Paying Top Dollar, the Redskins Sign Haynesworth |url=https://archive.nytimes.com/query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage-9A00E0DE1E3AF93BA15751C0A96F9C8B63.html\ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180726104119/https://archive.nytimes.com/query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage-9A00E0DE1E3AF93BA15751C0A96F9C8B63.html |archive-date=July 26, 2018 |website=New York Times}}</ref> However, Haynesworth would play only 20 games in two seasons for Washington until he was traded in 2011. During his short time with the Redskins, he often exhibited laziness and ineffectiveness on the field. As a result, the Redskins' acquisition of Haynesworth is  considered among the worst free agent signings in history.<ref>{{Cite web |date=March 11, 2013 |title=Worst free-agent signings since '93: Redskins, Raiders dominate list |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/news/nfl--worst-free-agent-signings-since--93--redskins--redskins-dominate-list-140917033.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210303033325/https://sports.yahoo.com/news/nfl--worst-free-agent-signings-since--93--redskins--redskins-dominate-list-140917033.html |archive-date=March 3, 2021 |access-date=July 5, 2023 |website=Yahoo! Sports}}</ref> He played his final season in 2011 with the [[New England Patriots]] and [[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]].

==High school career==
Haynesworth was born in [[Hartsville, South Carolina]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Albert Haynesworth, Hartsville , Strong-Side Defensive End |url=https://247sports.com/player/albert-haynesworth-74423/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170917133353/http://247sports.com/Player/Albert-Haynesworth-74423 |archive-date=September 17, 2017 |access-date=July 1, 2023 |website=247Sports |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Rosa |first=Poch de la |date=February 4, 2023 |title=The Life And Career Of Albert Haynesworth (Story) |url=https://www.profootballhistory.com/albert-haynesworth/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230320154348/https://www.profootballhistory.com/albert-haynesworth/ |archive-date=March 20, 2023 |access-date=July 1, 2023 |website=Pro Football History |language=en-US}}</ref> He attended [[Hartsville High School]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pompei |first=Dan |date=October 19, 2021 |title=How Albert Haynesworth, an NFL pariah with the Titans and a free-agent bust in Washington, got a second chance at life |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/2876615/2021/10/19/how-albert-haynesworth-an-nfl-pariah-with-the-titans-and-a-free-agent-bust-in-washington-got-a-second-chance-at-life/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221209121022/https://theathletic.com/2876615/2021/10/19/how-albert-haynesworth-an-nfl-pariah-with-the-titans-and-a-free-agent-bust-in-washington-got-a-second-chance-at-life/ |archive-date=December 9, 2022 |access-date=July 1, 2023 |website=The Athletic |language=en}}</ref> and participated in [[high school football|football]] and [[Track and field|track]], throwing the [[shot put]].<ref name="HS">{{Cite web |title=The Vol Signing Class of 1999 |url=http://www.oocities.org/colosseum/midfield/4656/99vols.html.tmp |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190709062226/http://www.oocities.org/colosseum/midfield/4656/99vols.html.tmp |archive-date=July 9, 2019 |access-date=August 1, 2011 |publisher=Jumpmaster's Vols Page}}</ref> Haynesworth accounted for 150 tackles, 56 tackles for loss, six sacks, and six fumble recoveries as a junior; he followed that by tallying 110 tackles, 51 quarterback pressures, and six sacks as a senior in 1998.<ref name="HS" />

Following his senior season, Haynesworth was named a SuperPrep and Rivalnet All-American, and was also rated the fourth-best defensive lineman and the 14th-ranked overall player in the nation according to ESPN's Top 100, while National Recruiting Advisor rated him as the best defensive tackle in the country.<ref name="HS" /> He was a member of the [[Tennessee Volunteers football|University of Tennessee Volunteers]]' 1999 recruiting class.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tennessee 1999 Football Commits |url=https://247sports.com/college/tennessee/Season/1999-Football/Commits/?deployment=agilityzone&device=mobile&segments= |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230706033332/https://247sports.com/college/tennessee/Season/1999-Football/Commits/?deployment=agilityzone&device=mobile&segments= |archive-date=July 6, 2023 |access-date=July 1, 2023 |website=247Sports |language=en-US}}</ref>

==College career==
As a student-athlete at the [[University of Tennessee]], Haynesworth was a three-year letterman for the [[Tennessee Volunteers football]] team under head coach [[Phillip Fulmer]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lambert |first=Terry A. |date=May 14, 2020 |title=Watch: Albert Haynesworth virtually meets with Tennessee defensive line |url=https://www.rockytoptalk.com/2020/5/14/21259572/watch-albert-haynesworth-virtually-meets-with-tennessee-defensive-line-vols-football |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230323184253/https://www.rockytoptalk.com/2020/5/14/21259572/watch-albert-haynesworth-virtually-meets-with-tennessee-defensive-line-vols-football |archive-date=March 23, 2023 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=Rocky Top Talk |language=en}}</ref> He lined up at the right defensive tackle position next to [[John Henderson (defensive tackle)|John Henderson]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hall |first=Jason |date=January 4, 2015 |title=Vols forming best DT duo since Haynesworth-Henderson? |url=https://www.saturdaydownsouth.com/tennessee-football/vols-forming-best-dt-duo-since-haynesworth-henderson/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160605081541/http://www.saturdaydownsouth.com/tennessee-football/vols-forming-best-dt-duo-since-haynesworth-henderson/ |archive-date=June 5, 2016 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=Saturday Down South |language=en-US}}</ref> He compiled 66 tackles, five sacks, 31 quarterback pressures, 20 tackles for a loss, and nine pass deflections during his collegiate career. He earned ''[[Sporting News]]'' Freshman All-American honors in 1999 and was named Second-team All-Southeastern Conference after his junior season.<ref>{{Cite web |date=December 4, 2001 |title=Five Vols Named to Associated Press All-SEC Teams |url=http://www.utsports.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/120401aab.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120406090857/http://www.utsports.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/120401aab.html |archive-date=April 6, 2012 |access-date=August 21, 2011 |website=Tennessee Athletics |agency=Associated Press}}</ref>

==Professional career==

===2002 NFL Draft===
Considered "potentially a brutal run-stopper" by ''[[The New York Times]]'',<ref>{{Cite web |last=Freeman |first=Mike |date=March 31, 2002 |title=Panthers Could Ignore Talented Passers and Select Peppers Instead |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2002/03/31/sports/pro-football-inside-nfl-panthers-could-ignore-talented-passers-select-peppers.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170729213500/http://www.nytimes.com/2002/03/31/sports/pro-football-inside-nfl-panthers-could-ignore-talented-passers-select-peppers.html |archive-date=July 29, 2017 |access-date=July 5, 2023 |website=New York Times}}</ref> Haynesworth was selected by the Tennessee Titans in the first round with the 15th overall pick in the [[2002 NFL draft]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=2002 NFL Draft Listing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2002/draft.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181001104106/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2002/draft.htm |archive-date=October 1, 2018 |access-date=March 18, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> He was the fourth defensive tackle selected from a draft class considered to be loaded with talented defensive linemen.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bell |first=Jarrett |date=April 18, 2002 |title=Big, agile defensive tackles at a premium for draft |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/nfl/2002draft/2002-04-16-cover.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161012071603/http://www.usatoday.com/sports/nfl/2002draft/2002-04-16-cover.htm |archive-date=October 12, 2016 |website=[[USA Today]]}}</ref> At Tennessee's Pro Day in 2002, when he was 20 years old, Haynesworth measured at 6-feet-6 and 317 pounds, ran a 4.82 40-yard dash, and had a 39-inch vertical jump and a 9-foot, 7-inch broad jump.<ref name="Pro Day Results">{{Cite web |last=Rosiak |first=Todd |date=April 11, 2002 |title=Talent pool looks deep |url=http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?document_id=0F2D74DE9A94FDF7 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170729092259/http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?document_id=0F2D74DE9A94FDF7 |archive-date=July 29, 2017 |access-date=January 14, 2010 |website=Milwaukee Journal Sentinel}}</ref> He did not work out at the 2002 [[NFL Combine]].<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Pauline |first=Tony |date=March 2, 2002 |title=No startling revelations in Combine's first two days |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/news/2002/03/02/combine_saturday/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090508161730/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/news/2002/03/02/combine_saturday/ |archive-date=May 8, 2009 |magazine=Sports Illustrated}}</ref>

{{NFL predraft
|    height ft = 6
|    height in = 5 5/8
|       weight = 317
|         dash = 4.82
|     vertical = 39
|     broad ft = 9
|     broad in = 7
|        bench = 39
|    wonderlic = 
|         note = All values from [[Tennessee Volunteers football|Tennessee's]] [[Pro Day]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://draftscout.com/dsprofile.php?PlayerId=798&DraftYear=2002 |title=Albert Haynesworth College Football Profile |website=DraftScout.com |access-date=April 18, 2025}}</ref><ref name="Pro Day Results" />
}}

===Tennessee Titans===

====2002 season====
Haynesworth made his NFL debut in the Titans' 2002 regular season opener against the [[2002 Philadelphia Eagles season|Philadelphia Eagles]] and had two tackles.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Philadelphia Eagles at Tennessee Titans – September 8th, 2002 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200209080oti.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230408055003/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200209080oti.htm |archive-date=April 8, 2023 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> He made his first NFL start in Week 15 against the [[2002 New England Patriots season|New England Patriots]]. He finished his rookie season with 16 appearances and three starts. He had one sack, 30 total tackles, and three passes defended.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Albert Haynesworth 2002 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2002/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170526025340/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2002/ |archive-date=May 26, 2017 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> He started in the Titans' two postseason games that year.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Divisional Round – Pittsburgh Steelers at Tennessee Titans – January 11th, 2003 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200301110oti.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230129185329/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200301110oti.htm |archive-date=January 29, 2023 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=AFC Championship – Tennessee Titans at Oakland Raiders – January 19th, 2003 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200301190rai.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180111165039/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200301190rai.htm |archive-date=January 11, 2018 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

====2003 season====
An incident foreshadowing future incidents with Haynesworth occurred at a Titans training camp in 2003, where Haynesworth kicked his former teammate, [[Center (gridiron football)|center]] [[Justin Hartwig]], in the chest, then had to be restrained by other teammates.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cranston |first=Mike |date=November 3, 2007 |title=Panthers' Hartwig fired up to face former team, Haynesworth |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/2007-11-03-2157944303_x.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090725101644/http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/2007-11-03-2157944303_x.htm |archive-date=July 25, 2009 |website=USA Today}}</ref>

In the 2003 season, Haynesworth had 2.5 sacks, 32 total tackles, four passes defended, and two fumble recoveries in 12 games and 11 starts in the regular season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Albert Haynesworth 2003 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2003/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170526025937/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2003/ |archive-date=May 26, 2017 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> He started the Titans' two playoff games and recorded one sack and five total tackles.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Wild Card – Tennessee Titans at Baltimore Ravens – January 3rd, 2004 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200401030rav.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220903160716/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200401030rav.htm |archive-date=September 3, 2022 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Divisional Round – Tennessee Titans at New England Patriots – January 10th, 2004 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200401100nwe.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180316074140/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200401100nwe.htm |archive-date=March 16, 2018 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

====2004 season====
In the 2004 season, Haynesworth appeared in and started ten games. He finished with one sack, 37 total tackles, three passes defended, and two forced fumbles.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Albert Haynesworth 2004 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2004/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170526034852/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2004/ |archive-date=May 26, 2017 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

====2005 season====
In the 2005 season, Haynesworth appeared in and started 14 games. He finished with three sacks, 52 total tackles, one pass defended, and one forced fumble.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Albert Haynesworth 2005 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2005/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170526034441/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2005/ |archive-date=May 26, 2017 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

====2006 season====

=====Stomping incident=====
On October 1, 2006, in the third quarter of a game against the [[2006 Dallas Cowboys season|Dallas Cowboys]], Cowboys [[running back]] [[Julius Jones (American football)|Julius Jones]] scored on a rushing play.<ref>{{Cite web |date=October 3, 2006 |title=NFL Suspends Titans' Haynesworth |url=https://www.theledger.com/story/news/2006/10/03/nfl-suspends-titans-haynesworth/25881516007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230706033328/https://www.theledger.com/story/news/2006/10/03/nfl-suspends-titans-haynesworth/25881516007/ |archive-date=July 6, 2023 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=The Ledger |language=en-US |agency=Associated Press}}</ref> During the play, Cowboys center [[Andre Gurode]] fell to the ground, and his helmet was removed by Haynesworth, who then attempted to stomp on Gurode's head, but missed. A second stomp opened a severe wound on Gurode's forehead, narrowly missing his right eye.<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Bishop |first=Greg |date=January 16, 2020 |title=Albert Haynesworth Doesn't Need Your Love. Just Your Kidney |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/01/16/albert-haynesworth-needs-kidney-aftermath-of-andre-gurode-stomp |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230608115237/https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/01/16/albert-haynesworth-needs-kidney-aftermath-of-andre-gurode-stomp |archive-date=June 8, 2023 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |language=en-us}}</ref>

Referee [[Jerome Boger]] assessed Haynesworth a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, to which Haynesworth protested by taking off his helmet and throwing it into the turf; Haynesworth was then assessed an additional 15-yard penalty and ejected.<ref>{{Cite web |date=July 15, 2008 |title=Titans, Haynesworth fail to beat franchise deadline |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3490689 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080730001102/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3490689 |archive-date=July 30, 2008 |access-date=July 5, 2023 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}}</ref>

Gurode later received 30 stitches just above and below his right eye.<ref>{{Cite web |date=November 18, 2009 |title=Gurode puts cleating incident behind him |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/football/cowboys-gurode/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230706033329/https://www.sportsnet.ca/football/cowboys-gurode/ |archive-date=July 6, 2023 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=Sportsnet.ca |language=en}}</ref> After the game, Titans head coach [[Jeff Fisher]] apologized on behalf of the Titans organization to Cowboys head coach [[Bill Parcells]]. After the game, Haynesworth apologized,<ref>{{Cite web |date=October 3, 2006 |title=Haynesworth suspended for unprecedented five games |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=2610577 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110726050532/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2610577 |archive-date=July 26, 2011 |access-date=July 5, 2023 |website=[[ESPN.com]] |agency=Associated Press}}</ref> saying "What I did out there was disgusting. It doesn't matter what the league does to me. The way I feel right now, you just can't describe it." Gurode later said that he would not seek criminal charges against Haynesworth. He continued to experience headaches and blurred vision for several days following the incident.<ref>{{Cite web |date=October 6, 2006 |title=Gurode accepts Haynesworth's apology |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=2615573 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240525105606/https://www.webcitation.org/60cykfH0m?url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story%3Fid=2615573 |archive-date=May 25, 2024 |access-date=July 5, 2023 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}}</ref>

Video evidence of the play shows Haynesworth bend down towards Gurode prior to his helmet being off and prior to the stomps. Because the view is partially blocked by other players it is unclear whether Haynesworth manually removes the helmet. Therefore, most media outlets reported simply that Gurode's helmet was off. However, hometown columnist Mickey Spagnola of DallasCowboys.com argued that Haynesworth pulled off Gurode's helmet.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Spagnola |first=Mickey |date=October 2, 2006 |title=Never A Dull Moment |url=http://www.dallascowboys.com/news.cfm?editorialAuthor=1&id=0B7E6E03-CB7A-F0CF-054748FE721F0419 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061201180429/http://www.dallascowboys.com/news.cfm?editorialAuthor=1&id=0B7E6E03-CB7A-F0CF-054748FE721F0419 |archive-date=December 1, 2006 |website=Dallas Cowboys}}</ref>

On October 2, 2006, Haynesworth was suspended for five games without pay by the NFL. The suspension was only the second multi-game suspension in NFL history for an on-the-field incident, more than twice as long as the previous longest suspension, given in [[1986 NFL season|1986]] by then-commissioner [[Pete Rozelle]] to [[Green Bay Packers|Green Bay]] nose tackle [[Charles Martin (American football)|Charles Martin]] for body-slamming [[Chicago Bears|Bears]] quarterback [[Jim McMahon]].<ref name="BattistaNYT2006">{{Cite web |last=Battista |first=Judy |date=October 3, 2006 |title=Titan Player Suspended 5 Games for Kicks to Head |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2006/10/03/sports/football/03titans.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170729181217/http://www.nytimes.com/2006/10/03/sports/football/03titans.html |archive-date=July 29, 2017 |access-date=February 18, 2012 |website=New York Times}}</ref>  Based on his 2006 base salary of $646,251, Haynesworth forfeited more than $190,000 in salary.<ref name="BattistaNYT2006" /> [[Roger Goodell]], who had recently become NFL's commissioner in the past month, stated that there was "absolutely no place in the game, or anywhere else" for Haynesworth's behavior.  However, [[ESPN]]{{'}}s [[Mark Schlereth]], a 12-year NFL veteran, felt that Haynesworth should have been suspended for the rest of the season.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hoge |first=Merril |date=October 2, 2006 |title=Punishment for Haynesworth not severe enough |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=2610631 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130513020557/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2610631 |archive-date=May 13, 2013 |access-date=July 5, 2023 |website=ESPN.com}}</ref>  Haynesworth's suspension was the longest for an in-game incident in NFL history until it was surpassed by [[Vontaze Burfict]], who was suspended 12 games plus the 2019 playoffs for repeated violations of helmet hit rules.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Austro |first=Ben |date=September 30, 2019 |title=Vontaze Burfict suspended for the rest of the 2019 season, the longest for an on-field infraction |url=http://www.footballzebras.com/2019/09/vontaze-burfict-suspended-for-the-rest-of-the-2019-season-the-longest-for-an-on-field-infraction/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190930193623/http://www.footballzebras.com/2019/09/vontaze-burfict-suspended-for-the-rest-of-the-2019-season-the-longest-for-an-on-field-infraction/ |archive-date=September 30, 2019 |access-date=September 30, 2019 |website=Football Zebras}}</ref>

The [[NFL Players Association]] initially planned to appeal the suspension, calling it too severe. However, Haynesworth said on October 3 that he would not appeal, after personally apologizing to Gurode on the same day.<ref>{{Cite web |date=October 3, 2006 |title=Haynesworth apologizes to Gurode |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=2612002 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211023013225/https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=2612002 |archive-date=October 23, 2021 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=ESPN.com |language=en |agency=Associated Press}}</ref> In a press conference on October 5, Haynesworth apologized to all who watched the game and said he had entered counseling to control his emotions. He also said that he would work with children in the Nashville area.<ref>{{Cite web |date=October 5, 2006 |title=Titans might punish Haynesworth more |url=https://www.patriots.com/news/titans-might-punish-haynesworth-more-97166 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528154601/https://www.patriots.com/news/titans-might-punish-haynesworth-more-97166 |archive-date=May 28, 2023 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=Patriots.com |language=en-US}}</ref>

Fisher told Parcells after the game that the Titans would punish Haynesworth themselves if they felt that the NFL's punishment was not serious enough. On the same day as Haynesworth's press conference, Fisher told a national radio show that the Cowboys game may have been Haynesworth's last as a Titan. The team had the option of either deactivating him for the remaining seven games of the season or releasing him.<ref>{{Cite web |date=October 7, 2006 |title=Titans want Haynesworth to return bonus money |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=2615539 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://www.freezepage.com/1312258260FTDLGQFGNI?url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id%3D2615539 |archive-date=August 2, 2011 |access-date=July 5, 2023 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}}</ref>  Had the Titans released him, they had enough room under the salary cap to absorb the $5.5 million they would owe him for 2007.<ref>{{Cite web |date=October 5, 2006 |title=Haynesworth may face more punishment from Titans |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=2614453 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://www.freezepage.com/1312258363IQGXZMUAGB?url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id%3D2614453 |archive-date=August 2, 2011 |access-date=July 5, 2023 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}}</ref>

Haynesworth was eligible to return on November 19 for the Titans' game against the [[2006 Philadelphia Eagles season|Philadelphia Eagles]]. Even so, on, there was no guarantee that he would play. Haynesworth's agent, Chad Speck, told several media outlets that Haynesworth fully expected to return to practice on November 13, and he did indeed report that day. He played against the Eagles on November 19, and recorded one tackle.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tennessee Titans at Philadelphia Eagles – November 19th, 2006 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200611190phi.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221213234411/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200611190phi.htm |archive-date=December 13, 2022 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> He finished the 2006 season with two sacks, 30 total tackles, and two passes defended in 11 games and starts.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Albert Haynesworth 2006 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2006/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170526034858/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2006/ |archive-date=May 26, 2017 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

====2007 season====
On September 9, 2007, in the season opener against the [[2007 Jacksonville Jaguars season|Jacksonville Jaguars]], Haynesworth was called for unnecessary roughness when he slammed running back [[Maurice Jones-Drew]] to the ground after a tackle.  He was fined $5,000 by the NFL for this incident.<ref>{{Cite web |date=September 14, 2007 |title=Titans' Haynesworth fined $5,000 for hard tackle |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/2007-09-14-691404661_x.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=http://www.freezepage.com/1312258486FUNIYSZIIQ?url=http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/2007-09-14-691404661_x.htm |archive-date=August 2, 2011 |website=USA Today |agency=Associated Press}}</ref> In Week 9, against the [[2007 Carolina Panthers season|Carolina Panthers]], he registered a career-high three sacks in the 20–7 victory.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Carolina Panthers at Tennessee Titans – November 4th, 2007 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200711040oti.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230305045944/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200711040oti.htm |archive-date=March 5, 2023 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

Haynesworth was elected to the [[Pro Bowl]] for the [[2008 Pro Bowl|first time]] for the [[2007 NFL season]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=2007 NFL Pro Bowlers |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2007/probowl.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180316023313/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2007/probowl.htm |archive-date=March 16, 2018 |access-date=July 1, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> In addition, he earned first team All-Pro honors.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2007 NFL All-Pros |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2007/allpro.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180319093121/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2007/allpro.htm |archive-date=March 19, 2018 |access-date=July 1, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> During this season following the stomping incident, he ranked second on the team with six sacks in his 11 games played up to the selection, led or tied for the team-high in total tackles three times that season, and led or tied the team-high in quarterback pressures five times. At the point where the Pro Bowl selection was made, the [[2007 Tennessee Titans season|Titans]] had an 8–3 record in games in which Haynesworth started and were 0–3 in games in which he did not play.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Albert Haynesworth 2007 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170526025635/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2007/ |archive-date=May 26, 2017 |access-date=July 1, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

Haynesworth said of his Pro Bowl selection, "It's an awesome feeling. It's kind of a load off my back because I didn't want last year's suspension to define my career. It was a difficult time in my life, but I was determined to keep working hard to get to this point and earn the respect of my teammates, coaches and fans." Haynesworth failed to sign with Tennessee due to the deadline of signing a franchise tagged player.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Walker |first=Teresa M. |date=July 15, 2008 |title=No deal between Titans, All Pro DT Haynesworth |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/2008-07-15-3338044218_x.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161011120112/http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/2008-07-15-3338044218_x.htm |archive-date=October 11, 2016 |website=USA Today}}</ref>

====2008 season====
In the 2008 season, Haynesworth appeared in and started 14 games. He finished with 8.5 sacks, 51 total tackles, two passes defended, and three forced fumbles.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Albert Haynesworth 2008 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2008/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170526030332/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2008/ |archive-date=May 26, 2017 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Haynesworth was named to the Pro Bowl and earned first team All-Pro honors for the 2008 season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2008 NFL Pro Bowlers |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2008/probowl.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180316160330/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2008/probowl.htm |archive-date=March 16, 2018 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=2008 NFL All-Pros |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2008/allpro.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180316023905/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2008/allpro.htm |archive-date=March 16, 2018 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> He was named Defensive Player of the Year by Sporting News.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sporting News Defensive Player of the Year Winners |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/sporting-news-defensive-player-of-the-year-award.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221009040523/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/sporting-news-defensive-player-of-the-year-award.htm |archive-date=October 9, 2022 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

===Washington Redskins===
An [[unrestricted free agent]] in the 2009 off-season, Haynesworth signed a seven-year, $100 million contract with the [[Washington Redskins]] on the first day of free agency, February 27, 2009.<ref name="ClaytonESPN">{{Cite web |last=Clayton |first=John |date=February 27, 2009 |title=Haynesworth's choice: Redskins |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3939011 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://www.freezepage.com/1312258562XCYKSEXXGS?url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id%3D3939011 |archive-date=August 2, 2011 |access-date=July 5, 2023 |website=ESPN.com}}</ref> This was despite being offered more money<ref>{{Cite news |last=Brooks |first=Matt |date=November 9, 2011 |title=Albert Haynesworth claimed by Tampa Bay Buccaneers |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/early-lead/post/albert-haynesworth-claimed-by-tampa-bay-buccaneers/2011/11/09/gIQAgKYE6M_blog.html |access-date=July 5, 2023 |work=Washington Post |language=en-US}}</ref> by the [[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]]. The deal was expected to pay Haynesworth $32 million in the first 13 months,<ref name="BattistaNYT" /> included $41 million guaranteed, and could have reached $115 million if all incentives were met.<ref name="ClaytonESPN" /> Tennessee's final offer to Haynesworth reportedly amounted to a four-year package worth $34 million total, with about $20 million in guarantees.<ref>{{Cite web |last=McCormick |first=Terry |date=April 9, 2009 |title=How hard did the Titans work to re-sign Haynesworth? |url=http://nashvillecitypaper.com/content/sports/commentary-how-hard-did-titans-work-re-sign-haynesworth |url-status=dead |archive-url=http://www.freezepage.com/1312258584LBEIQKXQKE?url=http://nashvillecitypaper.com/content/sports/commentary-how-hard-did-titans-work-re-sign-haynesworth |archive-date=August 2, 2011 |website=Nashville City Paper}}</ref> Haynesworth reported on [[Sirius Satellite Radio|Sirius]] Blitz that the [[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]] offered him a $120 million deal that could potentially increase by 20%. He says that he took a discount to play with the Redskins because of their large fan base and media outlet, something that he also did not have in Tennessee.<ref>{{Cite web |date=June 25, 2009 |title=Haynesworth: Bucs offered more than Redskins |url=http://blogs.nfl.com/2009/06/25/haynesworth-discusses-free-agency-details-vince-young/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=http://www.freezepage.com/1312258771ZVOXPKSPUM?url=http://blogs.nfl.com/2009/06/25/haynesworth-discusses-free-agency-details-vince-young/ |archive-date=August 2, 2011 |access-date=February 15, 2012 |website=NFL.com}}</ref>  In April 2009, the Titans asked the NFL to consider [[Tampering (Sports)|tampering]] charges against the Redskins, claiming that the Redskins contacted Haynesworth before the [[free agent|free agency]] period began on February 27.<ref>{{Cite web |date=April 2, 2009 |title=Report: Titans ask NFL to probe signing |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=4035877 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://www.freezepage.com/1312259074YXNDVKQNGD?url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id%3D4035877 |archive-date=August 2, 2011 |website=ESPN.com}}</ref>

From the beginning of his time with the Redskins, Haynesworth presented problems for the coaching staffs of both [[Jim Zorn]] and [[Mike Shanahan]]. After a 45–12 loss to the [[New York Giants]] on ''[[Monday Night Football]]'' in [[2009 NFL season|2009]], Haynesworth questioned the scheme of defensive coordinator [[Greg Blache]], and stated that he could not "survive another season in this system if it stays the way it is."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Reid |first=Jason |last2=Steinberg |first2=Dan |name-list-style=amp |date=December 26, 2009 |title=Haynesworth sounds off on Blache, defense after being sent home |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/12/25/AR2009122501780.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=http://www.freezepage.com/1312259245UWHIMSQEEV?url=http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/12/25/AR2009122501780.html |archive-date=August 2, 2011 |newspaper=Washington Post}}</ref> After the 2009 season he refused to participate in off-season workouts, and arrived at camp in poor physical condition, unable to pass a basic fitness test.<ref name="Reid">{{Cite web |last=Reid |first=Jason |date=July 29, 2010 |title=Albert Haynesworth fails to complete second part of conditioning test |url=http://voices.washingtonpost.com/redskinsinsider/albert-haynesworth/albert-haynesworth-fails-to-co.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927124622/http://voices.washingtonpost.com/redskinsinsider/albert-haynesworth/albert-haynesworth-fails-to-co.html |archive-date=September 27, 2011 |newspaper=The Washington Post}}</ref> He also felt inexperienced and unfamiliar with the team's 3–4 defensive scheme introduced by Shanahan, having previously played in a 4–3 scheme in Tennessee and in his first season in Washington.<ref>{{Cite web |date=August 3, 2010 |title=Albert Haynesworth cuts test short |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/trainingcamp10/news/story?id=5429787 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006113403/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/trainingcamp10/news/story?id=5429787 |archive-date=October 6, 2014 |access-date=July 5, 2023 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}}</ref> In the 2009 season, Haynesworth appeared in and started 12 games. He finished with four sacks, 37 total tackles, and five passes defended.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Albert Haynesworth 2009 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2009/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170526025344/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2009/ |archive-date=May 26, 2017 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

On December 7, 2010, it was announced that Haynesworth would not participate for the remainder of the season. There had been conflicts throughout the 2010 preseason with Haynesworth and the coaching staff. After a dispute over his absence at a practice in which Haynesworth claimed to be ill, the team suspended him for "conduct detrimental to the club". Head coach [[Mike Shanahan]] said the suspension followed a refusal by Haynesworth to cooperate in a variety of ways and not only because of the practice absence.<ref>{{Cite web |date=December 7, 2010 |title=Redskins suspend Haynesworth 4 games without pay |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/redskins-suspend-haynesworth-4-games-without-pay/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=http://www.freezepage.com/1312259291ZTMEDIDAZS?url=http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2010/12/07/sportsline/main7126500.shtml |archive-date=August 2, 2011 |website=CBS News |agency=Associated Press}}</ref>

During the 2010 season, Haynesworth had a career-low 13 tackles and just 2.5 sacks in eight games,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Albert Haynesworth 2010 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2010/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170526025349/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2010/ |archive-date=May 26, 2017 |access-date=July 1, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> leading the [[NFL Network]] to name the signing of Haynesworth as the "worst free-agency move of the last decade."<ref name="easy">{{Cite web |date=May 17, 2011 |title=Easy to come up with worst free-agency move of last decade |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/easy-to-come-up-with-worst-free-agency-move-of-last-decade-09000d5d81fe031a |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190619072842/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d81fe031a/article/easy-to-come-up-with-worst-freeagency-move-of-last-decade |archive-date=June 19, 2019 |access-date=August 13, 2015 |website=NFL.com}}</ref> Many other NFL writers have gone further, calling Haynesworth the worst free agent bust in NFL history.<ref>{{Cite web |date=March 28, 2012 |title=Fan Fuel: Top 10 NFL free agent busts |url=http://www.sportsnet.ca/fanfuel/2012/03/28/nfl_free_agent_busts/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120403091758/http://www.sportsnet.ca/fanfuel/2012/03/28/nfl_free_agent_busts/ |archive-date=April 3, 2012 |access-date=December 31, 2012 |website=SportsNet}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Van Wie |first=Dan |date=February 23, 2012 |title=NFL Free Agency: 50 Biggest Free-Agent Signing Busts in NFL History |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1073638-50-biggest-free-agent-signing-busts-in-nfl-history |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220122183924/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1073638-50-biggest-free-agent-signing-busts-in-nfl-history |archive-date=January 22, 2022 |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=Bleacher Report |language=en}}</ref> Haynesworth created some controversy in March 2015 when he likened [[Ndamukong Suh]]'s six-year, $114 million contract to his previous contract with the Redskins.<ref>{{Cite web |date=March 4, 2015 |title=Albert Haynesworth offers advice to Ndamukong Suh |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/albert-haynesworth-offers-advice-to-ndamukong-suh-0ap3000000476581 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151012203243/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000476581/article/albert-haynesworth-offers-advice-to-ndamukong-suh |archive-date=October 12, 2015 |access-date=October 26, 2015 |website=NFL.com}}</ref>

===New England Patriots===
Haynesworth was traded to the [[New England Patriots]] on July 28, 2011, for a fifth-round draft pick in the [[2013 NFL draft]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schefter |first=Adam |date=July 28, 2011 |title=Haynesworth traded to Patriots, sources say |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/6811622/albert-haynesworth-washington-redskins-traded-new-england-patriots-sources-say |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230328210432/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/6811622/albert-haynesworth-washington-redskins-traded-new-england-patriots-sources-say |archive-date=March 28, 2023 |access-date=July 1, 2023 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref> He lasted less than four months with the Patriots, and on November 8, 2011, Haynesworth was placed on waivers.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Reiss |first=Mike |date=November 8, 2011 |title=Albert Haynesworth analysis |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/boston/new-england-patriots/post/_/id/4708671/albert-haynesworth-analysis |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111210191243/http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/new-england-patriots/post/_/id/4708671/albert-haynesworth-analysis |archive-date=December 10, 2011 |access-date=February 15, 2012 |website=ESPN.com}}</ref> His placement on waivers came days after he got into a confrontation with assistant [[Pepper Johnson]] on the sidelines.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Forsberg |first=Chris |date=November 9, 2011 |title=Haynesworth didn't back up words with Pats |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7210338/albert-haynesworth-back-words-new-england-patriots |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201208111418/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7210338/albert-haynesworth-back-words-new-england-patriots |archive-date=December 8, 2020 |access-date=July 1, 2023 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Hangst |first=Andrea |date=November 8, 2011 |title=Patriots Cut Albert Haynesworth, Confirm What We Already Knew About DT |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/931051-patriots-cut-albert-haynesworth-confirm-what-we-already-knew-about-dt |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230701212428/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/931051-patriots-cut-albert-haynesworth-confirm-what-we-already-knew-about-dt |archive-date=July 1, 2023 |access-date=July 1, 2023 |website=Bleacher Report |language=en}}</ref>

===Tampa Bay Buccaneers===
Two days after being released by the Patriots, Haynesworth was claimed off waivers by the [[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=November 10, 2011 |title=Bucs Claim Haynesworth |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/10/sports/football/bucs-claim-haynesworth.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230701211706/https://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/10/sports/football/bucs-claim-haynesworth.html |archive-date=July 1, 2023 |access-date=July 1, 2023 |website=The New York Times |language=en-US |agency=Associated Press}}</ref> He appeared in seven games for Tampa Bay and started six.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Albert Haynesworth 2011 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2011/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230701212204/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HaynAl20/gamelog/2011/ |archive-date=July 1, 2023 |access-date=July 1, 2023 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> On February 15, 2012, he was released by the team.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Yasinskas |first=Pat |date=February 15, 2012 |title=Bucs cut DT Haynesworth, save $7.2M cap hit |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7578383/tampa-bay-buccaneers-release-albert-haynesworth |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230706033334/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7578383/tampa-bay-buccaneers-release-albert-haynesworth |archive-date=July 6, 2023 |access-date=July 1, 2023 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref>

==NFL career statistics==
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;"
|-
! rowspan="2"| Year
! rowspan="2"| Team
! rowspan="2"| GP
! colspan="4"| Tackles
! colspan="2"| Fumbles
! colspan="6"| Interceptions
|-
! Cmb !! Solo !! Ast !! Sck !! FF !! FR !! Int !! Yds !! Avg !! Lng !! TD !! PD
|-
! [[2002 NFL season|2002]] || [[2002 Tennessee Titans season|TEN]]
| 16 || 30 || 21 || 9 || 1.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 3
|-
! [[2003 NFL season|2003]] || [[2003 Tennessee Titans season|TEN]]
| 12 || 32 || 21 || 11 || 2.5 || 0 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 4
|-
! [[2004 NFL season|2004]] || [[2004 Tennessee Titans season|TEN]]
| 10 || 36 || 25 || 11 || 1.0 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 2
|-
! [[2005 NFL season|2005]] || [[2005 Tennessee Titans season|TEN]]
| 14 || 52 || 36 || 16 || 3.0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 1
|-
! [[2006 NFL season|2006]] || [[2006 Tennessee Titans season|TEN]]
| 11 || 30 || 23 || 7 || 2.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 2
|-
! [[2007 NFL season|2007]] || [[2007 Tennessee Titans season|TEN]]
| 13 || 40 || 32 || 8 || 6.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 4
|-
! [[2008 NFL season|2008]] || [[2008 Tennessee Titans season|TEN]]
| 14 || 51 || 41 || 10 || 8.5 || 3 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 2
|-
! [[2009 NFL season|2009]] || [[2009 Washington Redskins season|WAS]]
| 12 || 37 || 29 || 8 || 4.0 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 5
|-
! [[2010 NFL season|2010]] || [[2010 Washington Redskins season|WAS]]
| 8 || 16 || 13 || 3 || 2.5 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 1
|-
! rowspan="2"|[[2011 NFL season|2011]] || [[2011 New England Patriots season|NE]]
| 6 || 3 || 2 || 1 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2011 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season|TB]]
| 7 || 20 || 18 || 2 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 2
|-
! colspan="2"| [https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/stats/_/id/3543/albert-haynesworth Career] || 123 || 347 || 261 || 86 || 30.5 || 6 || 4 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 26
|}

==Legal issues==
Arrest warrants were issued against Haynesworth in two [[Tennessee]] counties in May 2006 stemming from a traffic incident on [[Interstate 40]]. Both sets of charges were dropped in June 2006. The judge in the [[Putnam County, Tennessee|Putnam County]] case tossed the charges on the grounds that the alleged offense happened out of their jurisdiction. In [[Smith County, Tennessee|Smith County]], the district attorney dismissed the charges. In March 2009, Haynesworth was indicted on two [[misdemeanor]] traffic charges stemming from a December 2008 car accident in Tennessee.<ref>{{Cite web |date=March 12, 2009 |title=Haynesworth Indicted on Traffic Charges |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3974042 |url-status=dead |archive-url=http://www.freezepage.com/1312259439DCNZUBYRBU?url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id%3D3974042 |archive-date=August 2, 2011 |access-date=August 2, 2011 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}}</ref> In an accident on [[Interstate 65]], Corey Edmonson was partially paralyzed after Haynesworth drove his Ferrari into Edmonson's car. Haynesworth was driving in excess of {{convert|100|mph|km/h}} when he struck Edmonson's vehicle, which then struck a concrete barrier.<ref name="bleacher">{{Cite web |last=Hankins |first=Adam |date=May 26, 2010 |title=Albert Haynesworth's Lawsuit Is Another Headache for Washington Redskins |url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/397200-albert-haynesworths-lawsuit-is-another-headache-for-washington-redskins |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100530072640/http://bleacherreport.com/articles/397200-albert-haynesworths-lawsuit-is-another-headache-for-washington-redskins |archive-date=May 30, 2010 |access-date=August 2, 2011 |website=Bleacher Report}}</ref>

On June 22, 2010, it was reported that Clayton Bank & Trust was suing Haynesworth, alleging that Haynesworth had failed to make payments on a loan in the amount of more than $2.38 million. The suit was filed in the Knox County Chancery Court on June 18, 2010. According to papers, Haynesworth entered a commercial [[loan agreement]] for the original principal amount of $2,381,688.58 on June 27, 2009. On February 27, 2009, the two parties entered into an Extension Agreement with an effective date of February 27, 2010, according to the suit. The attorney for Clayton Bank & Trust, Hugh B. Ward Jr., was seeking a little over $2.4 million.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tenorio |first=Paul |date=June 22, 2010 |title=Albert Haynesworth sued by Tennessee bank |url=http://voices.washingtonpost.com/redskinsinsider/albert-haynesworth/albert-haynesworth-sued-by-ten.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906064739/http://voices.washingtonpost.com/redskinsinsider/albert-haynesworth/albert-haynesworth-sued-by-ten.html |archive-date=September 6, 2015 |newspaper=The Washington Post}}</ref>

In 2010, Silvia Mena, a stripper from [[New York City|New York]], claimed in a $10 million lawsuit that Haynesworth impregnated her and left her with no financial assistance.<ref name="bleacher" />

In 2011, Haynesworth allegedly threw a punch to the nose of Joel Velazques, 38, of [[Leesburg, Virginia]] during a traffic altercation.<ref>{{Cite web |date=February 4, 2011 |title=Albert Haynesworth accused in Virginia |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=6090069 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110725203821/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=6090069 |archive-date=July 25, 2011 |access-date=June 16, 2011 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}}</ref>

In January 2015, Haynesworth pled guilty for reckless boating charges.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Solvin |first=Matt |date=January 20, 2015 |title=Albert Haynesworth pleads guilty to reckless boating |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2015/01/20/albert-haynesworth-reckless-boating/22053325/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230226003413/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2015/01/20/albert-haynesworth-reckless-boating/22053325/ |archive-date=February 26, 2023 |website=[[USA Today]]}}</ref>

On September 28, 2020, Haynesworth was arrested in [[Cleveland, Tennessee]], and charged with domestic assault after he was accused of yelling at and threatening his former girlfriend and her boyfriend.<ref>{{Cite web |date=September 29, 2020 |title=Former Tennessee Titans DL Albert Haynesworth charged with domestic assault |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30002570/former-tennessee-titan-albert-haynesworth-charged-domestic-assault |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929233716/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30002570/former-tennessee-titan-albert-haynesworth-charged-domestic-assault |archive-date=September 29, 2020 |access-date=September 29, 2020 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}}</ref>

==In popular culture==
In a response to Haynesworth's failure to pass the Redskins' conditioning test in July 2010,<ref name="Reid" /><ref name="era">{{Cite web |last=Steinberg |first=Dan |date=December 7, 2010 |title=Five worst moments of the Haynesworth era |url=http://voices.washingtonpost.com/dcsportsbog/2010/12/five_worst_moments_of_the_hayn.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130220042005/http://voices.washingtonpost.com/dcsportsbog/2010/12/five_worst_moments_of_the_hayn.html |archive-date=February 20, 2013 |access-date=August 2, 2011 |newspaper=Washington Post}}</ref> the edition of August 27, 2010, of satire news organization ''[[The Onion]]'' ran the headline (with an accompanying photo), "Report: Albert Haynesworth Just A Mound Of Ice Cream And Hot Dogs."<ref name="onion">{{Cite web |title=Report: Albert Haynesworth Just A Mound Of Ice Cream And Hot Dogs |url=https://www.theonion.com/report-albert-haynesworth-just-a-mound-of-ice-cream-an-1819589953 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220927115629/https://www.theonion.com/report-albert-haynesworth-just-a-mound-of-ice-cream-an-1819589953 |archive-date=September 27, 2022 |access-date=July 1, 2023 |website=The Onion |language=en-us}}</ref>

==Health==
On July 7, 2019, Haynesworth revealed that his kidneys were failing and was seeking a donor for transplant.<ref>{{Cite web |date=July 11, 2019 |title=Former DT Haynesworth needs kidney transplant |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-football-nfl-ten-haynesworth-idUSKCN1U60P4 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190715162615/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-football-nfl-ten-haynesworth-idUSKCN1U60P4 |archive-date=July 15, 2019 |access-date=July 1, 2023 |website=Reuters |language=en}}</ref> In April 2021, Haynesworth successfully received a transplanted kidney.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Moraitis |first=Mike |date=May 14, 2021 |title=Ex-Titan Albert Haynesworth gets life-saving kidney transplant |url=https://titanswire.usatoday.com/2021/05/14/tennessee-titans-albert-haynesworth-kidney-transplant/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709190353/https://titanswire.usatoday.com/2021/05/14/tennessee-titans-albert-haynesworth-kidney-transplant/ |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |access-date=July 8, 2021 |website=Titans Wire|publisher=USA Today}}</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist|colwidth=30em}}

==External links==
{{Commons}}
{{footballstats|pfr=H/HaynAl20|yahoo=5901|espn=3543}}
*[https://utsports.com/sports/football/roster/albert-haynesworth/14189 Tennessee Volunteers bio]

{{2002 NFL Draft}}
{{TitansFirstPick}}
{{Tennessee Titans 2002 draft navbox}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Haynesworth, Albert}}
[[Category:1981 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Sportspeople from Hartsville, South Carolina]]
[[Category:American Conference Pro Bowl players]]
[[Category:American football defensive tackles]]
[[Category:New England Patriots players]]
[[Category:Players of American football from South Carolina]]
[[Category:Tampa Bay Buccaneers players]]
[[Category:Tennessee Titans players]]
[[Category:Tennessee Volunteers football players]]
[[Category:Washington Redskins players]]
[[Category:Violence in sports]]