"Albert Haynesworth pled nolo contendre to misdemeanor simple assault this afternoon in D.C. Superior Court, avoiding a trial on a greater charge of misdemeanor sexual abuse. The trial had been scheduled to start tomorrow.

An NFL spokesman says the league will review Haynesworth's case under the personal conduct policy.

Haynesworth said nothing as he left the courthouse and reporters peppered him with questions. His attorney, A. Scott Bolden, made a brief statement outside the courthouse.

"Mr. Haynesworth is very pleased to have this over in his life and move on with his life, get back to New England and get back to doing what he does best and that's play professional football," said Bolden. "This was a difficult time for him, his family and others connected to him. We put up a good fight. The US attorney put up a good fight. This resolution was welcome by us."