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LeSean McCoy's move to Buffalo could boost running back's fantasy stock

In the first jaw-dropping move of what is sure to be a wild and wacky NFL offseason, the Eagles flipped the fantasy world on its collective head.

Running back LeSean McCoy, off a somewhat disappointing campaign, was shipped to Buffalo for linebacker Kiko Alonso.

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At first glance, most would assume swapping Eagles green for Bills blue is a significant downgrade for the multi-time Pro Bowl selection. Philly’s high-powered offense and frenetic pace favored McCoy’s versatile skill set. However, after his yards per carry dropped dramatically a season ago (5.1 in ’13 to 4.2 last year) along with his performance near the goal-line, the rusher became expendable in Chip Kelly’s eyes.

The offensive philosophy in Buffalo is, for all intents and purposes, polar opposite that of its trade partner. The Bills, under new head coach Rex Ryan and OC Greg Roman, plan to install a "ground and pound" scheme. Recall in Ryan’s last three seasons in New York, the Jets averaged 31.2 rush attempts per game, a staggering amount in this high-volume passing age.

Prehistoric running back, Fred Jackson, will remain in the mix, but don’t expect the veteran to wrest away more than 8-10 touches per game. Meanwhile, McCoy, sure to be the point of emphasis, could flirt with a DeMarco Murray-like workload next season. Roughly 22-25 touches per game could easily become the norm. As the eighth RB off the board (9.2 ADP) in stupid early mock drafts, his stock will steadily rise before the heart of the picking season. By the time August rolls around, he could again creep inside the overall top-five.

The Bills, who ranked dead last in run-blocking a season ago according to Pro Football Focus, plan to upgrade the offensive line via free agency and the draft. The Richie Incognito signing was only the beginning. If the unit is shored up and meshes quickly in camp, McCoy could be a statistical monster. Considering Buffalo’s sketchy QB situation and elite defense, Shady will be worked early and often.

As for Philly, the implementation of a timeshare is a strong likelihood. In that scenario Chris Polk would work as the power guy and an unknown complement the receiving/between-the-20s back. Pending what the Old Chipster does in regards to potentially trading up for Marcus Mariota, a Tevin Coleman (Indiana), Ameer Abdullah (Nebraska) or Mike Davis (South Carolina) could be entertained at the Eagles’ No. 52 overall pick. Philly could also seek a replacement via free agency. And, no, wet-paper towel C.J. Spiller isn’t a recommended option. Whoever fills the spot should be coveted by fantasy players this fall. With Kelly calling the shots the past two seasons, the Eagles backfield ranked No. 6 and No. 11 in terms of overall fantasy value.

McCoy was the first shoe to drop. What’s next is anyone’s best guess.

Buckle up folks. This offseason is going to be one heck of a ride.

Related video - Shaun King's take on the trade: