Eagles Notes: McCoy says he's glad to be appreciated in Buffalo

In LeSean McCoy's first public comments since the Eagles traded him to Buffalo Bills, the Pro Bowl running back expressed a sentiment seemingly directed to both the team that traded for him and the one that traded him away.

"It feels good to be appreciated," McCoy told reporters Tuesday at his introductory news conference.

McCoy was dealt for inside linebacker Kiko Alonso. The trade became official on Tuesday.

When asked if he felt he was appreciated in Philadelphia, McCoy said he "definitely" thinks he was "for my career." But it seemed the trade process bothered him.

"Just how everything happened, not really being aware of what was going on in the trade," McCoy said. "They showed me tons of love and support through my whole career. I had a conversation with the owner, and the coach decided to move in [a new] direction, and you've got to respect it. It's business."

Eagles coach Chip Kelly was not available for comment.

McCoy said he did not know he would get traded. He figured he might be approached about adjusting his salary-cap hit but did not expect getting sent to Buffalo.

"My first reaction was I was disappointed because . . . I didn't know what was going on," McCoy said.

The Bills gave McCoy a five-year deal, and McCoy expressed gratitude in coming to a team that wants him and is devoted to running the ball.

McCoy said he had "no reaction" to the changes Kelly has made. In a follow-up interview with the NFL Network, McCoy said he did not feel disrespected, but he continued to mention the lack of communication.

"I've been the franchise player, the best player on that team for six years and running," McCoy said. "I thought at least if you were going to trade me or do whatever you want to do with me, just let me know as a man."

Alonso, who is recovering from a torn anterior cruciate ligament, said in a conference call with that he's not at "100 percent yet." He does not anticipate being "full go" in April or May, but he is pleased with his progress and he expects to be ready for training camp.

Alonso said he will play inside linebacker for the Eagles. He feels comfortable with the defense because there are "a lot of similarities" with what he did at Oregon.

He saw "a lot of familiar faces" when he visited the Eagles' facilities. "I think it will definitely help me out with the transition," Alonso said.

Alonso is the player the Eagles traded McCoy to acquire. He said there is no added pressure because of the blockbuster trade.

"I'm just going to go out there and do what I do and give the organization and the fans my best, and at the end of the day, that's all I can do," he said.

The Eagles officially announced a six-year deal with cornerback Byron Maxwell, who comes from the Seattle Seahawks as the Eagles' top free agent. The Inquirer reported earlier this week that the deal is worth $63 million, with $25 million guaranteed.

Maxwell, who is 6-foot-1 and 207 pounds, started 17 games in four seasons with the Seahawks. He becomes the Eagles' No. 1 cornerback.

The Eagles and Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray have "mutual interest," according to an ESPN report. Murray, who led the NFL in rushing last season, is a coveted free agent. NFL Network also mentioned Oakland and Jacksonville as possibilities. . . . Former Eagles linebacker Trent Cole agreed to terms on a two-year deal with the Indianapolis Colts. Running back Frank Gore, who at one point appeared headed to Philadelphia, also agreed to terms with the Colts.