The Redskins have landed free agency's top prize in Albert Haynesworth.

The team has signed the 6-6, 320-pound defensive tackle widely regarded as the best defensive tackle in pro football.

The two sides reached a deal early Friday morning and Haynesworth signed the contract on Friday afternoon, minutes before an introductory press conference at Redskins Park.

"Albert is a difference maker and his physical presence will strengthen our defense," head coach Jim Zorn said. "He is a significant addition to our team and we are excited to have a player of his ability and toughness as a member of the Redskins."

Haynesworth, 27, is a 7-year NFL veteran who has spent his entire career with the Tennessee Titans.

As the anchor of the Titans' defensive line since 2002, Haynesworth has posted 271 tackles (199 solo) and 24 sacks in his career.

A total of 14.5 of his sacks have come the last two years, the highest total among defensive tackles in that span.

Last season, Haynesworth was a dominant figure on a Titans defense that was seventh overall and sixth against the run. He helped the Titans post the AFC's best record last year.

In 14 games, Haynesworth recorded 75 tackles, including seven for a loss, 8.5 sacks, four forced fumbles and a team-high 22 quarterback pressures.

He was fourth in the Associated Press NFL Defensive Player of the Year voting, following a third-place finish in 2007.

Haynesworth earned All-Pro honors as well as Pro Bowl berths following the 2007 and 2008 seasons.

A native of Hartsville, S.C., Haynesworth played college football at the University of Tennessee and then was drafted by the Titans with the 15th overall pick in the 2002 NFL Draft.

He joins a Redskins defensive tackle corps that includes 9-year veteran Cornelius Griffin, as well as third-year players Kedric Golston and Anthony Montgomery.