Newsmakers
Sentenced Former University of San Diego basketball star Brandon Johnson has been sentenced to six months in prison for his role in a game-fixing scheme. The 26-year-old insists he never manipulated a game in which he played, though prosecutors allege he profited on several games his senior year. He is the highest profile of the 10 defendants indicted in 2011.
Franchised The Denver Broncos placed their franchise tag on All-Pro left tackle Ryan Clady, ensuring the three-time Pro Bowler a salary of $9.828 million in 2013. That’s almost triple the $3.5 million Clady made last season.The Broncos are hoping to work out a long-term deal with Clady before training camp.
• The Buffalo Bills have retained the rights to safety Jairus Byrd by placing a franchise tag on him before he was eligible to become an unrestricted free agent.
Released The Atlanta Falcons have released running back Michael Turner, defensive end John Abraham and cornerback Dunta Robinson. While not unexpected, the release of Atlanta’s top rusher, its leader in sacks, and a starting cornerback is still a stunning start to the offseason. The moves free up about $16 million in salary-cap space.
• The Carolina Panthers announced they’ve released starting defensive tackle Ron Edwards in a move that frees up $2.5 million in salary-cap space.
Suspended St. John’s has suspended D’Angelo Harrison, the third-leading scorer in the Big East Conference. Red Storm basketball coach Steve Lavin said Harrison will be out the remainder of the season, including postseason games.
Signed Houston Dynamo forward Brian Ching will serve as a player and assistant coach under a new contract announced by the team. Ching, who played at Gonzaga University, is an original member of the Dynamo and the franchise’s career leader in goals (69). He plans to retire after this season. The six-time MLS All-Star has also scored 11 goals in 45 caps with the U.S. national team.
Finalized California has announced that new football coach Sonny Dykes’ contract is for five years and $9.7 million over the life of the deal that lasts through the 2017 season. Dykes was hired in December but contract terms had not been completed until Friday.