It didn’t take long for there to be an unexpected blockbuster trade in the NFL. In a surprise move, Adam Schefter of ESPN is reporting that Philadelphia Eagles running back LaSean McCoy will be traded to the Buffalo Bills in exchange for third-year linebacker Kiko Alonso.
McCoy still has three years remaining on a contract due to pay him nearly $12 million in 2015. After leading the league in rushing yards in 2013, his production fell a tad last season to fourth and he was only able to find the end zone five times. It’s possible this is a cap space-clearing move more than anything as the Eagles will realize $23.55 million in savings over the remainder of the deal.
The move bolsters a Bills running back corps that was less than stellar last year. It also pretty much assures that C.J. Spiller will be seeking a new deal elsewhere. Whether or not it means Buffalo will still decide to pursue the position in a 2015 NFL Draft that appears to be loaded there remains to be seen.
Alonso had an impressive rookie year in Buffalo but missed all of last year after tearing his ACL during an offseason workout. The trade is a reunion of sorts between him and his college coach Chip Kelly as both were at Oregon. Kelly is probably banking on Alonso to resume the form he had in 2013 when he finished third in the league at linebacker in both tackles and interceptions.
Alonso brings a certain versatility to the Eagles linebacking corps. During his rookie season he proved himself to be a legitimate run stopper that can also drop back into coverage and disrupt opposing team’s pass game. Philadelphia was average defending the run and finished tied for 21st league-wide in interceptions in 2014. Alonso’s presence has the potential to upgrade both components of Philly’s defense.
Be sure to stay tuned to Last Word On Sports as we’ll be bringing you widespread coverage of the wheeling and dealing associated with free agency beginning next week.
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