NFL cuts rookie event because of lockout

CANTON, Ohio, May 24 (UPI) -- The NFL says it canceled next month's rookie symposium in Canton, Ohio, the first event on its calendar called off because of the league's lockout.

League spokesman Greg Aiello said the cancellation is because of "the uncertainty of the labor issues we are facing and the logistical challenges of conducting the symposium," ESPN reported Tuesday.

"The symposium is a large, complex event involving many professionals and others," he said. "In fairness, we could not continue to keep their commitment on hold."

The NFL lockout began March 11.

The league and the players association are at an impasse, waiting for a June 3 hearing before the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on the legality of the lockout.

The lockout prompted some controversial comments from Baltimore Ravens star Ray Lewis.

If there is no football, crime will increase across the country because people without jobs will have nothing to do on Sunday, Lewis said.

"Do this research. If we don't have a season, watch how much evil, which we call it crime, watch how much crime picks up when you take away our game," he said.

Baltimore City Councilman Jim Kraft said if Lewis is that concerned about the possibility of crime increasing, he should do something about it and issued a challenge to the linebacker, WJZ-TV reported.

"Well, Ray, that's pretty irresponsible," Kraft said. "If you really feel that way, then come on down. We could use your help."