Kiko Alonso was just as surprised as anyone else when he heard he was traded to the Eagles for LeSean McCoy.
"I was definitely surprised because I didn't see myself getting traded or going anywhere," he said after participating in batting practice at Citizens Bank Park on Friday.
"I saw myself being in Buffalo at least for those four years [on his rookie contract]. But it happened, and then I'm just seeing that it's a business. I'm happy where I'm at now, and can't wait to get to work."
Alonso missed all of last season because of a torn ACL. He was the Pro Football Writers Association's Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2013 with the Bills, when he recorded 159 tackles, two sacks and four interceptions.
He'll enter 2015 as one of the Eagles' main pieces at inside linebacker in defensive coordinator Billy Davis' 3-4/hybrid scheme.
If he can return to his rookie form, the trade will not look as lopsided as it did on the face. The Eagles traded their all-time leading rusher straight up for a linebacker.
On the surface, it was a questionable move. But the Eagles desperately needed to upgrade their defense, and Chip Kelly believed Alonso will be a big part of that.
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But should what should we expect from Alonso in 2015?
Watch Comcast SportsNet's Amy Fadool and 94WIP's Rhea Hughes debate the issue on Friday's edition of Quick Slants.