Tampering is a charge that is thrown around a lot during this time of the year, especially after teams end up signing major contracts with free agent players a few short hours into the free agency period.

This year is no different, as Tennessee is currently pursuing evidence that would indicate that the Redskins tampered with DT Albert Haynesworth prior to the official free agency period commencing.

The signs are all there, given that Washington was somehow able to finalize a deal with Haynesworth just five hours after the start of free agency that will pay him well over $100 million by the end of the contract, but the hardest part is drumming up enough evidence to pin the charge on the team in question.

Obviously the team allegedly doing the tampering is not going to confess nor will the player who signed the contract. The burden of proof rests squarely on the shoulders of the accuser and that is a difficult task to overcome.

The Titans will likely spend some time this week, questioning anyone they can that was involved in the Haynesworth’s deal with Washington, and then present their case to the league. If they end up with a solid amount of evidence to back up their claim, the league could very well take significant action against the Redskins in the form of draft pick compensation to Tennessee, along with financial considerations as well.

We’ll keep an eye on this as it develops and report any news that comes along as a result of the Titans investigation.

Other posts you may enjoy:

1. Redskins Cleared of Tampering Allegations
2. Monday morning roundup – Ravens, Cutler, Titans
3. Holmgren takes charge in Cleveland