Eagles trade CB Byron Maxwell, LB Kiko Alonso to Dolphins
Eagles get: Dolphins' first-round pick (No. 8 overall)
Dolphins get: Eagles' first-round pick (No. 13 overall), CB Byron Maxwell, LB Kiko Alonso
While this trade has been largely well received, and it very well may have been the best thing for the Eagles, I'm not blown away. Yes, the club gets out from under Byron Maxwell's contract, which allowed for other moves in free agency, but the team loses a capable starting cornerback in the process, one who it would appear has yet to be replaced. And as far as throw-ins go, Alonso is potentially huge if he returns to anywhere near his 2013 form with the Bills.
True, neither Maxwell or Alonso would be considered great fits for defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz's scheme anyway. This probably isn't hurting the culture in the locker room any, either. And jumping from 13 to eighth overall in the NFL draft is definitely a big deal.
But a big enough deal to part with a decent cornerback and a 26-year-old who once appeared to be on the verge of stardom? I understand the decision. I am absolutely in no way knocking the trade. Actually, it's genius of vice president of player personnel Howie Roseman to get any return for these two players who almost certainly were not part of the Eagles' future regardless. At the end of the day, however, it's still a starter and a prospect to move up five spots in the draft and save a few million dollars. It's not that exciting.
Grade: C+