Albert Haynesworth Trying to Force An End With The Redskins

↵↵What was already an incredibly strained relationship between defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth and the Washington Redskins has almost certainly reached the point of being completely undone with Haynesworth’s latest refusal to be at the team’s mandatory minicamp. (A report this morning has him attending the minicamp, but not participating, though only to avoid a fine.) Just two months after receiving a $21 million optional roster bonus (which the Redskins want Haynesworth to returrn), the restive Haynesworth is now trying to force a trade through his agent.↵

↵↵It all stems from his refusal to adapt to the Redskins change from a 4-3 system to a 3-4, a change which would alter his role from an all-around disruptive force on the line to a space eater who consumes blockers, thus freeing up other defenders to make plays. Many believe Haynesworth could easily thrive in the new role, but that’s beside the point. He doesn’t want to do it.↵

↵↵Because the new Mike Shanahan/Bruce Allen regime has to establish a measure of control and accountability that has been missing from the Redskins for years, most presume the next move will be for them to honor Haynesworth’s wishes and trade him, though some would counsel against that. Past dominance aside, Haynesworth’s current trade value has taken a huge hit following a lackluster 2009 that was marked by frequent injury and fatigue issues. Not to mention that the guy has never exactly been noted for his character (even other NFL players are mocking him this latest episode). That he outright refuses to play in a 3-4 system certainly limits his potential suitors as well. ↵

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↵↵⇥Attendees to one event at FedExField, called “An Evening with Bruce Allen,” assured folks at the Tupperware Party that fans had nothing to worry about with Haynesworth. One recount of Allen’s presentation, posted on Snyder’s message board last week: “He said Albert will absolutely be there at the mandatory workouts next week.”↵↵↵If the report this morning has merit (UPDATE: It didn’t -- Haynesworth didn’t show up), Allen still might be technically correct, but in having this ongoing drama continue to define his first offseason with the team, Allen may soon not be able to inspire much more confidence than his predecessor. ↵

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