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The NFL has reneged on the deal to keep Vikings running back Adrian Peterson on the Commissioner-Exempt list through the conclusion of his legal case, as evidenced by the fact that: (1) his legal case has concluded; and (2) Peterson remains on the Commissioner-Exempt list.

At a time when the NFLPA has demanded reinstatement for Peterson under threat of a non-injury grievance, the NFL’s position is simple. Per a source with knowledge of the situation, the league intends to move quickly with the review of Peterson’s case under the personal conduct policy.

Still, the case can move only so quickly, especially with the league creating several steps that will precede a final ruling. They want to review the case file (which they could have a hard time getting), they want Peterson to meet with experts, they want the experts to make recommendations to Commissioner Roger Goodell, and they want to hold a hearing. As a practical matter, that will take more than the next few days.

So why not reinstate him pending review of the case? If he had tested positive for steroids, he’d still be playing until his internal rights were resolved. Why should the rules be any different for a guy whose infraction has nothing to do with his employment — and who agreed to not play only until his legal case was resolved?