ESPN reports the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals granted the NCAA a stay Friday morning in an order that reverses the federal judge's decision that previously opened the door for all athletes who started college in the 2022-23 academic year and played for four consecutive seasons to return for a fifth season. NCAA chief legal officer sent a letter to schools Friday afternoon saying that the association's eligibility rules were back in effect.

Three-time Pro-Bowl and former Illini Cornerback Devon Witherspoon and the Seattle Seahawks reached agreement on a four-year, $132 million extension and includes over $101 million guaranteed that now makes him the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history according to ESPN.

Washington Commanders DT Johnny Newton underwent surgery for a torn pectoral muscle and is expected to miss significant time per NFL Insider Jordan Schultz. The former Illinois standout has 82 tackles, 7 sacks (5 last year), 2 forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery in 33 career games.

Running back Jonathan Ward, a 2016 Bishop McNamara grad and six-year NFL veteran, signed a free-agent contract with the Baltimore Ravens according to Shaw Local, reuniting him with an organization that signed him to its practice squad last season.

Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson has a Grade 2 oblique strain and is expected to miss four to six weeks.

The Cubs claimed INF Gabriel Arias off waivers from the Mets. In a corresponding move, the Cubs transferred RHP Phil Maton to the 60-Day injured list.

MLB unanimously approves league-record $3.9B sale of Padres to investor group led by José E. Feliciano and wife, Kwanza Jones

Former MLB pitcher Tommy John, namesake of the pioneering elbow surgery, passed away at 83.

Bill Rasmussen, sports TV visionary and founder of ESPN, passed away at 93.