FOXBORO, Mass. — Patriots defensive end Andre Carter was critical of Albert Haynesworth during their time together with the Washington Redskins, but it didn't affect their relationship during their short stint alongside each other in New England.
Carter said the two joked around a lot together, and he wishes Haynesworth well in Tampa. And even though Haynesworth didn't exactly pan out with the Patriots, Carter wouldn't compare the situation in New England with the debacle in Washington.
"With Albert, it's simple," Carter said. "He's a big guy. He's been making big plays. I can't really speak for him because my focus wasn't necessarily on him. My focus was on myself. Albert, I wish him the best. I hope he does well. It seemed like he had a great game last week. Hopefully, he fits in that particular scheme. Every scheme that you go to is always different. Ours is more physical but also disciplined. Teams that he had played for like Tennessee where they want the tackles up the field all the time, all the time, all the time. At the Redskins, it was a little bit different. Here, it's a little different. Over in Tampa, I think he'll fit well and that will be that."
It sounded like Haynesworth didn't particularly match up well with New England's defensive scheme. Based on film review, it was obvious that Haynesworth could still play at a high level, but he couldn't be counted upon to bring it consistently on a play-by-play basis.
And while Haynesworth was viewed as a bad guy in Washington, his personality was brighter during his brief tenure with the Patriots.
"He is a nice guy," Carter said. "He's funny. He's got a great sense of humor. He's a jokester, always messes with me all the time. I wish the best for him. Hopefully in Tampa, that scheme will work out well."
