Howell agrees with Dodgers

The Dodgers continued their offseason spending on Friday as they agreed with reliever J.P. Howell on a one-year contract. ESPN.com reports the deal is worth just under $3 million and includes performance bonuses. Howell posted a 3.04 ERA in 55 appearances for the Rays last season.

D-Train re-united with Cubs

CBSSports.com Baseball Insider Jon Heyman reports the Cubs signed pitcher Dontrelle Willis to a minor-league contract on Friday. The deal also includes an invitation to spring training. Willis was drafted by Chicago in 2000.

Ray Lewis reportedly set to join ESPN post-Ravens

Citing multiple sources, SI.com’s Richard Deitsch reports the soon-to-be-retired Baltimore Ravens LB Ray Lewis is close to signing a multiyear contract with ESPN.

Victor Cruz, New York Giants resume contract talks

The New York Giants and Victor Cruz have yet to agree on a new contract, but the Pro Bowl wide receiver doesn’t appeared to be too worried about the direction of the negotiations.

Dirk Koetter, Atlanta Falcons sign contract extension

Dirk Koetter won’t be serving as a head coach in the NFL, at least for next season. The Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator has signed a contract extension to keep his current role on Mike Smith’s staff.