Titans tackle to test free agency

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After lengthy negotiations with the Tennessee Titans, defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth instead will first test the free-agent market before deciding whether to re-sign with the only NFL team he's played for.

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Albert Haynesworth shows why he is one of the top defensive tackles in the NFL.

The NFL Network on Wednesday first reported the story, which was later confirmed by ESPN.

The 27-year-old Haynesworth is expected to draw great interest in free agency. Fresh off another Pro Bowl season, the 6-foot-6, 320-pound Haynesworth has 91 tackles and 14.5 sacks in the past two years. In seven seasons as a pro, he has 271 career tackles -- 199 of them solo -- and 24 sacks.

If Haynesworth does return to Tennessee, it won't be before free agency begins Feb. 27.

Haynesworth had a team-high 8.5 sacks and 75 tackles last season. He missed the Titans' final two regular-season games because of a sprained knee before returning for the playoffs.

According to The (Nashville) Tennessean, negotiations between the Titans and Haynesworth have not advanced, with Haynesworth looking for a six-year deal that would surpass the value of Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jared Allen's contract. Allen last season signed a six-year deal for $12.2 million a year and $32 million in guarantees, making him the highest-paid defensive player in the league.

The Tennessean reported that according to a source, the Titans' offer is for four years, $36 million.

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