Bucs/NFL

Dolphins' Williams waits on ruling

By wire services
Published April 12, 2006

NEW YORK - The NFL has no timetable to rule on an appeal by Ricky Williams of a positive drug test that could result in the Miami running back's suspension for the 2006 season, the player's lawyer said Tuesday.

Lawyer David Cornwell and Williams met Monday with NFL counsel Jeff Pash in an attempt to have the test overturned.

Cornwell said Tuesday he and his client presented "compelling evidence" showing that disciplining Williams would "undermine the integrity" of the NFL's substance abuse policy.

The league, which doesn't acknowledge drug tests until there is a final determination, had no comment on the appeal. If the positive result is upheld, it would be Williams' fourth violation of the NFL's substance abuse policy, meaning at least a one-year suspension.

Previous positive tests were for marijuana, which Williams acknowledged using. The latest test apparently involved a drug other than marijuana.

Williams retired and sat out the 2004 season, but returned last season.

BENGALS: Receiver Chris Henry is scheduled to stand trial May 30 on charges of carrying a concealed firearm. Henry was arrested in January after a police officer allegedly saw him pull a pistol on a group of revelers in Orlando. Officers found a Luger on the back seat of a limousine and a loaded magazine in a gutter where Henry was standing, according to police reports.

He was also arrested on counts of improper exhibition of a firearm and aggravated assault with a firearm, but only charged with carrying a concealed weapon.

Henry pleaded not guilty Thursday.

SEAHAWKS: Punter Tom Rouen re-signed. In 12 games last season he averaged 41.6 yards and had 20 punts downed inside the 20.

[Last modified April 12, 2006, 01:07:16]