The Washington Redskins still have another hurdle to clear in the Albert Haynesworth saga. According to multiple reports, Haynesworth is expected to appeal the suspension through the NFL Players' Association. Via Rick Maese and Jason Reid of the Washington Post:
Not over yet. Albert Haynesworth is expected to appeal the team's suspension
ESPN 980's Chris Russell backed up Maese' report, saying you can "absolutely" expect a grievance to be filed, based on conversations he's had with NFL sources.
This shouldn't be a surprise to anyone. Haynesworth is being suspended without pay, and anytime that happens, a grievance likely follows. In this case, Haynesworth stands to lose a decent amount of money. The four-game suspension will cost him $847,000, according to Andrew Brandt of National Football Post.
If the appeal does occur, it will go to an independent arbitrator rather than the commissioner because it's team discipline, according to Brandt. However, there's also a good chance Haynesworth doesn't get much sympathy from the NFLPA. After all, here is what NFLPA president Kevin Mawae said back in June.
"I mean, if you don't want to be there don't take the $21 million contract. How things turned out it's no surprise to guys that have played with him in Tennessee."