"Albert Haynesworth is drinking the Kool-Aid. He's bought in, hook, line and sinker to the Patriots Way. Just loving every minute of it.

Either that, or he's a great actor.

Last night, after making his much-awaited debut in the preseason finale against the Giants at Gillette Stadium, Haynesworth was positively aglow. The mammoth defensive lineman gushed about Patriots coach Bill Belichick. He raved about the defense and defensive system. He couldn't say enough about his teammates.

You name it. The man loves it.

Had he known what life was like here, he would have given back all the cash he received from the Redskins and traded it in sooner for Patriots colors. That's right. He'd return $41 million guaranteed to be doing what he is now.

"Everyone's here for you. I really enjoy that," said Haynesworth, who had two tackles and numerous pressures playing in parts of the first half of last night's 18-17 loss. "I know my head coach is for me. I know my owner's for me. My players are for me. I feel relaxed. I'm having fun again. I'm having fun playing football again.""