Union files grievance on behalf of Haynesworth (updated)

Updated 12:45 p.m.

The NFL Players Association has filed a grievance on behalf of suspended Redskins defensive lineman Albert Haynesworth, an attempt not to return Haynesworth to the field but to recoup some of his lost salary, according to his agent.

"I can confirm that the NFLPA has filed the appeal of Albert's four-game suspension," said Chad Speck, Haynesworth's agent, in a phone interview. "Albert wanted to return to the field and play immediately, but unfortunately that was not an option and therefore I recommended that we not expedite the appeal process."

Haynesworth and Speck could have pursued an expedited appeal that - if Haynesworth won - could have returned him to the team. But Speck said he believed that would have been pointless because he believes the Redskins would not have played Haynesworth even if the suspension was lifted.

"A victory in an expedited appeal would have forced the Redskins to reinstate him to the workplace but would not have forced them to play him," Speck said. "I anticipate they would have deactivated Albert for the remainder of the season and it made no sense to attempt to put him back into what has become a dysfunctional situation. Had there been any remedy available that actually would have put Albert back on the field this season, I would have pursued it."

Haynesworth's suspension, which Coach Mike Shanahan said was for conduct detrimental to the team, took effect Dec. 7, two days after Haynesworth was healthy but inactive for a loss against the New York Giants. If the suspension stands, Haynesworth is due to lose more than $847,000 - the pro-rated version of his base salary for the final four games of the season.