The Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced on Wednesday that they have released veteran defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth.
Haynesworth originally joined the Buccaneers as a waiver claim on November 9, 2011, after being released at midseason by the New England Patriots. Prior to signing with New England in 2011, he had spent his first nine NFL seasons with the Tennessee Titans (2002-08) and Washington Redskins (2009-10).
Haynesworth's release is the first by the Buccaneers since the end of the 2011 season and an indication that the team feels confident in the health and potential of its young defensive linemen.
"I appreciate Albert playing for us after some key injuries this past season," said General Manager Mark Dominik. "He was very professional and we now wish him all the best as he moves forward."
After joining the Buccaneers in November, Haynesworth played in seven games and started six, contributing 25 tackles and two tackles for loss.
