Hi Jason,
I agree the Feature section is not clear, although you can do true single-ended measurements by using bipolar supplies.
If you are creating a new PCB, you really should consider using the ADS1220. It has an almost identical feature set of the ADS1247 and can bypass the PGA so that you can make the single-ended measurement without using the diode.
I believe the concept you are proposing will work, but you should connect VREF- to AGND as VREFCOM should be tied to AGND. You will most likely want to have input filtering, so you should at least add the component footprints to your design. Also make sure you have bypass caps on both the analog and digital supply pins and close as possble to the pins.
Best regards,
Bob B