PRO FOOTBALL DAILY REPORT : RAMS : Henley’s Status as Player Unclear

Cornerback Darryl Henley said Tuesday he has not petitioned the NFL commissioner’s office for reinstatement, although Ram officials say he has.

“I still haven’t talked to them yet,” Henley said as he left the Rams’ training facility. “I have no other comment.”

Said John Shaw, Ram executive vice president: “We are led to believe he has contacted the league office. We’ve talked with his agent (Marvin Demoff). We’re all waiting.”

Demoff did not return phone calls.

Henley took a paid leave of absence from the team Oct. 5 after an investigation of his alleged role in a cocaine distribution network became public.

Henley, 26, worked out at the Rams’ training facility Monday night for the first time since leaving the team.

No charges have been filed against Henley, who can return to the team if Commissioner Paul Tagliabue approves a petition.

According to the league office, a hearing involving the commissioner and player and his representatives is scheduled once the petition is filed. There is no timetable on the hearing, or the length of time the commissioner could take to decide.

If the petition is approved, the player is free to return at any time.