"Why did the Bucs put out the welcome mat for Albert Haynesworth?

There are several reasons, not the least of which is they are a little desperate for help at defensive tackle.

The season-ending injury to Gerald McCoy left the Bucs with no defensive linemen who can be effective playing the three technique (on the outside shoulder of the guard in the B gap), the centerpiece of Tampa Bay's 4-3, one-gap scheme.

At 6 feet 6, 350 pounds, Haynes­worth still has the quickness to penetrate and beat blockers one on one, meaning opponents can't simply slide protection toward NT Brian Price or double-team the defensive ends.

Haynesworth has about $750,000 left on the $1.5 million contract for 2011. What's more, having lost three of their past four games, the Bucs needed a little boost of confidence.

Acquiring Haynesworth sparked the locker room a bit, and veteran players said they took the move as a sign the Bucs front office was still in it to win it.

"I think we all feel there's still a big second half to this football season," GM Mark Dominik said. "That's eight more opportunities for these guys to really get this thing rolling the way we feel we can play defense. I don't think we've been a complete team all season. I don't want to make excuses. It is what it is. But at some point, we need to play more consistently. "