The NFL has put the kibosh on the inaugural National Fantasy Football Convention (NFFC), which was organized by Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo, because it was set to take place in at the Sands Expo in Las Vegas, reports FOXSports.com's Alex Marvez. Holding an event at a casino property -- even though the Sands Expo doesn't have gambling -- is a violation of league rules.
NFL has canceled our fantasy football convention this year in Vegas and that is disappointing. I'm sad for the fans and players.
— Tony Romo (@tonyromo) June 6, 2015
"Players and NFL personnel may not participate in promotional activities or other appearances at or in connection with events that are held at or sponsored by casinos," an NFL spokesman told Marvez in an email.
Possible punishments for participating in the event would be a fine but not a suspension, though the league already ratted some players out to their parents. No, really.
More from Marvez:
A source connected with the National Fantasy Football Convention told FOX Sports that NFL representatives were calling players and even the parents of some players threatening that participants could be suspended. An NFL spokesman denied that has happened.
"We could not be more shocked and disappointed by the events of the past few days, and we want to extend our sincerest apologies for any inconveniences, frustrations, and disappointment this will undoubtedly cause," the NFFC said on its website. "We also want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your support and interest in the National Fantasy Football Convention.
Players set to attend the now-canceled event include Rob Gronkowski (duh), Antonio Brown, Le'Veon Bell, Jamaal Charles, DeMarco Murray and Eddie Lacy. The NFFC now plans to hold the inaugural event in July 2016 in Los Angeles.
"While we regret not being able to bring the inaugural NFFC to Las Vegas, we’re thrilled about the abundance of opportunities that Southern California awards to our attendees, partners, and players," the NFFC said.
Like, say, no gambling, which the NFL frowns upon. Except, of course, when it doesn't.
So the Saints can hold training camp at resort w/a casino but players can't go to fantasy football convention at locale owned by a casino?OK
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) June 6, 2015
