NFL

Lions hire John Morton as offensive coordinator

Given their recent success, I expected the Lions to target an in-house replacement for Ben Johnson. Morton doesn’t quite fit that description, although he did serve as a senior offensive assistant with Detroit in 2022. Regardless, Morton has big shoes to fill in his new role.

Grade: C+

Cowboys hire Matt Eberflus as defensive coordinator

Dallas recently promoted Brian Schottenheimer to head coach — his first time serving in that role — so it makes sense to hire a defensive coordinator with experience as a head man. In fact, coordinating a stop unit is what Eberflus does best, as he was overextended as the Bears’ head coach. Eberflus previously served as the Colts’ defensive coordinator from 2018-21.

Grade: B-

MLB

Reds sign LF Austin Hays to one-year, $5 million contract

It’s hard to find a team trying to win more in need of outfield help than the Reds, so taking a flier on the talented Hays is smart. This pact is a bit pricey for 2025, but Hays has shown to be more than capable of producing as a left fielder, hitting a combined 54 home runs from 2021-23. Last season was a disaster for the 29-year-old, so Cincinnati is surely hoping for a bounce-back campaign.

Grade: B-

Pirates sign 2B Adam Frazier to one-year, $1.53 contract

Death, taxes and the Pirates bringing back franchise stalwarts on one-year deals. Frazier isn’t as accomplished — or beloved — in the Steel City as teammate Andrew McCutchen, but he spent 2016-21 with Pittsburgh. His impact in 2025 won’t be as strong as his effort in those seasons, but he still can handle second base and the corner outfield spots defensively. Don’t expect much at the plate, however.

Grade: C-