Albert, Choose Please.

Albert Haynesworth, #92

Daniel Snyder saw something in Albert Haynesworth. One can liken it to Al Davis, believing faithfully in JaMarcus Russell – looking past the stats and lackluster play to the natural born talent. What the fans see today is the same man, singing the same song, making the same excuses. I’m sorry Albert. I, too, would like to do as little as possible in the weight room and get the maximum results. It ain’t happening.

Linebacker Darren Hambrick asked, “what do voluntary mean?” when he realized that he didn’t necessarily have to attend all off-season workouts. Like Hambrick, Albert decided it wasn’t necessary for him to join his teammates. For the best definition of voluntary, the players should look at film of Jerry Rice running hills and showing up early. They should watch Emmitt Smith working out harder than most though could. Opting for best is another definition of voluntary. So I implore Albert – CHOOSE to play at your peak performance and earn at least half of your money.

Neither of Rice nor Smith were perfect off the field, but what they brought to their profession and their teams was immeasurable. The work ethic was contagious. Instead, Haynesworth bring a throng of reporters asking will he-can he-should he-could he play? Barring real injuries, those questions should be replaced by inquiries about productivity and vision for the season. Instead, it’s a guessing contest about his weight and bets on whether he can pass the conditioning tests. Last season, JaMarcus brought with him those same questions. He answered them with inconsistent play, lack of durability and downright trifling crap when the man could have been a great QB. Could have been, Albert, is not what you want to define your legacy.

Three times (on record) Albert has kicked or hurt a defenseless player – once kicking his own teammate in the chest during practice. Snyder looked past those lapses in judgment and offered the man one of the richest contracts in NFL history. Had he met all the incentives, which doesn’t appear likely, Haynesworth could have earned $115 million. Instead, he’ll still take some serious money to the bank while he whines about what’s happening on the field. While we’re all looking to other coaches, players and pundits to describe what’s happening, Haynesworth himself said it best.

Yes, Albert, what you’re doing out there is still disgusting.