Kiko Alonso
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Kristian "Kiko" Alonso (born August 14, 1990) is an American former professional football player who was a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Oregon Ducks and was selected by the Buffalo Bills in the second round of the 2013 NFL draft. He was traded four times in his NFL career, which is tied with Eric Dickerson and Brandin Cooks for an NFL record.

Key Information

After being named the 2013 PFWA Defensive Rookie of the Year with the Bills, Alonso missed his second season due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and was then traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2015. Following an inconsistent season with the Eagles, he was traded to the Miami Dolphins, becoming entrenched as a starter for three years. He was traded again to the Saints in 2019, with whom he was primarily a reserve player. Following another ACL injury during the 2019 playoffs, he was traded to the 49ers in 2020, but was released later that season without ever playing a game.

Early life

[edit]

Kiko Alonso's father, Carlos, was born in Cuba but raised in Puerto Rico.[1] His mother, Monica Alonso, is from Colombia. Kiko was born in Newton, Massachusetts. He has an older brother Carlos and a younger brother Lucas.

Kiko attended Los Gatos High School in Los Gatos, California. He led the De Anza League and Central Coast Section in tackles his senior year with 150 stops (81 unassisted). He also tallied double figures in tackles in 10 of 12 games, finished third on the team in quarterback sacks, and led the Wildcats in receiving (35 catches, 559 yards). He led Central Coast's sixth-ranked team to the league title (10–1–1) in 2007, with its lone loss his final year coming against Gilroy (40–34) in the sectional semifinals.

Rated a three-star recruit by Rivals.com, he was rated the No. 47 inside linebacker in the class of 2008, behind Etienne Sabino (No. 1), Dont'a Hightower (No. 15), and Stevenson Sylvester (No. 26).[2] He accepted a scholarship offer from Oregon over a scholarship offer from Utah.[3]

College career

[edit]
Alonso (47) with the Oregon Ducks in 2012

Alonso attended the University of Oregon, where he played for the Ducks football team from 2008 to 2012. After redshirting in 2008, he spent the 2009 season as the Ducks' primary reserve middle linebacker. He appeared in the final twelve games, accumulating 13 of his 16 tackles unassisted. In 2010, he spent the entire season suspended from the team for a DUI and other legal troubles.[4] He returned the following season and was Oregon's eighth-leading tackler ranked fourth among linebackers with 46 stops, including 6 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks. He was also named the 2012 Rose Bowl Defensive Player of the Game with one interception and five tackles, including career-highs of 1.5 sacks and 2.5 tackles for loss. In his final season, he started in all 13 games and earned second-team all-conference honors. He recorded 87 total tackles (62 solo, 25 assisted), including 16 tackles for loss, a sack, four interceptions, seven pass deflections and two forced fumbles.

Suspension

[edit]

On February 19, 2010, Alonso was arrested and charged with a DUI.[5][6] He was suspended for the 2010 season. Alonso was arrested again in May 2011 on charges of burglary, criminal trespassing and mischief.[7] The charges stemmed from a woman who called 911 to report that Alonso banged on her door and demanded to let him in to her home.[8] According to sources close to him, it is believed Alonso thought he was breaking into his own house. He pleaded guilty to all of the charges. He received two years of probation, and was ordered to undergo 200 hours of community service along with alcohol treatment programs.[9] He was re-instated to the Ducks football team in early September 2011 after completing over community service and an alcoholic awareness program.[10]

Professional career

[edit]
Pre-draft measurables
Height Weight Arm length Hand span 40-yard dash 10-yard split 20-yard split 20-yard shuttle Three-cone drill Vertical jump Broad jump
6 ft 3+3⁄8 in
(1.91 m)		 238 lb
(108 kg)		 32+1⁄8 in
(0.82 m)		 9+3⁄4 in
(0.25 m)		 4.74 s 1.66 s 2.71 s 4.18 s 6.96 s 30.5 in
(0.77 m)		 9 ft 9 in
(2.97 m)
All values from NFL Combine.[11]

Buffalo Bills

[edit]

2013

[edit]

The Buffalo Bills selected Alonso in the second round (46th overall) of the 2013 NFL draft.[12] Alonso was the fifth linebacker drafted in 2013.[13]

External videos
video icon Bills draft Kiko Alonso 46th overall
video icon 2013 NFL Draft Profile: Kiko Alonso

On May 14, 2013, the Bills signed Alonso to a four-year, $4.30 million contract that includes $2.46 million guaranteed and a signing bonus of $1.57 million.[14][15][16]

Alonso was selected as a replacement for Nick Barnett and entered training camp as the starting middle linebacker.[17] Head coach Doug Marrone named Alonso the starting middle linebacker to begin the regular season, alongside outside linebackers Nigel Bradham and Manny Lawson.[18][19]

He made his professional regular season debut and first career start in the Buffalo Bills' season-opener against the New England Patriots and recorded nine combined tackles during their 23–21 loss. On September 15, 2013, Alonso recorded ten combined tackles, deflected a pass, made his first career sack, and made his first career interception during a 24–23 win against the Carolina Panthers in Week 2. Alonso intercepted a pass by Panthers' quarterback Cam Newton, that was originally intended for fullback Mike Tolbert, during the first quarter.[20] In Week 3, Alonso recorded eight combined tackles and intercepted a pass by Jets' quarterback Geno Smith as the Bills lost 27–20 at the New York Jets.[21] He became the first Bills' player to record an interception in back to back games since Jairus Byrd in 2009.[22] On September 29, 2013, Alonso made five combined tackles and intercepted two passes by Ravens' quarterback Joe Flacco in a 23–20 win against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 4.[23] On October 3, 2013, Alonso was named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month for the month of September.[24] In Week 6, Alonso recorded a season-high 22 combined tackles (nine solo) during a 27–24 loss against the Cincinnati Bengals. Alonso started in all 16 games as a rookie in 2013 and recorded 159 combined tackles, four interceptions, four pass deflections, two sacks, and one forced fumble.[25] Alonso finished with the third most tackles among all players in 2013, behind Vontaze Burfict and Paul Posluszny.[26] Alonso was the only defensive player nominated for PFWA Rookie of the Year in 2013.[27] On January 14, 2014, Alonso was named PFWA Defensive Rookie of the Year.[28] Alonso was also named to the NFL's All-Under-25 Team for 2014.[29] He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team.[30]

2014

[edit]

Bills General Manager Doug Whaley announced that Alonso would be shifted to the weakside linebacker position for the 2014–15 NFL season.[31] Shortly after however, Alonso tore his anterior cruciate ligament while working out in Oregon and missed the entire 2014 season, as a seven to nine-month recovery was expected.[32][33] On August 26, 2014, the Buffalo Bills placed Alonso on the reserve/non-football injury.[34]

Philadelphia Eagles

[edit]

On March 10, 2015, the Buffalo Bills traded Alonso to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for running back LeSean McCoy. The trade reunited Alonso with Philadelphia Eagles' head coach Chip Kelly, who was his head coach at Oregon.[35]

During training camp, Alonso competed against Mychal Kendricks and DeMeco Ryans for a job as a starting inside linebacker.[36] Head coach Chip Kelly named Alonso a backup inside linebacker to begin the regular season, behind DeMeco Ryans and Mychal Kendricks.[37]

During the second quarter of a Week 2 contest against the Dallas Cowboys on September 20, 2015, Alonso suffered a Grade II sprain – a partial tear – of his repaired left anterior cruciate ligament. Alonso was inactive for the next five games (Weeks 3–7). In Week 17, he collected a season-high nine combined tackles during the Eagles' 35–30 victory at the New York Giants.[38] He finished the season with 43 combined tackles (30 solo), one interception, and one pass deflection in 11 games and one start.[25]

Miami Dolphins

[edit]

2016

[edit]

On March 9, 2016, the Philadelphia Eagles traded Alonso, cornerback Byron Maxwell, and a first round draft pick (13th overall) in the 2016 NFL draft to the Miami Dolphins in exchange for the Dolphins' first round draft pick (8th overall) in the 2016 NFL Draft.[39] Alonso entered training camp slated as the starting middle linebacker. Head coach Adam Gase named Alonso the starting middle linebacker to begin the regular season, alongside Koa Misi and Jelani Jenkins.[40]

In Week 5, he collected a season-high 12 combined tackles (eight solo) during a 30–17 loss against the Tennessee Titans. On November 13, 2016, Alonso made four solo tackles, broke up a pass, and returned an interception for his first career touchdown during a 31–24 win at the San Diego Chargers in Week 10. Alonso intercepted a pass by Chargers' quarterback Philip Rivers, that was intended for wide receiver Tyrell Williams, and returned it for a 60-yard touchdown during the fourth quarter.[41] Alonso was inactive for the Dolphins' Week 14 victory against the Arizona Cardinals due to a hamstring injury.[42] Alonso finished his first season as a member of the Miami Dolphins with 115 combined tackles (69 solo), four pass deflections, two interceptions, and one touchdown in 15 games and 15 starts.[43][25]

The Miami Dolphins finished second in the AFC East with a 10–6 record and earned a playoff berth. On January 8, 2017, Alonso started his first career playoff game and recorded six combined tackles during their 30–12 loss at the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC Wildcard Game.

2017

[edit]

On March 9, 2017, the Miami Dolphins placed a first-round tender on Alonso as a restricted free agent.[44] On March 21, 2017, the Miami Dolphins signed Alonso to a four-year, $28.91 million contract that includes $18.50 million guaranteed and a signing bonus of $7.05 million.[45][16]

Alonso entered training camp slated as a starting outside linebacker. Head coach Adam Gase named Alonso the starting weakside linebacker to begin the regular season. He started alongside strongside linebacker Lawrence Timmons and middle linebacker Mike Hull.[46][47]

In Week 8, Alonso drew criticism for a hit on Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco, which put Flacco in concussion protocol.[48] The league conducted an investigation to determine if Alonso should be suspended, but decided not to suspend him.[49] On November 3, 2017, Alonso was fined $9,115 by the league for his hit on Flacco.[50] On December 24, 2017, Alonso collected a season-high 11 combined tackles (eight solo) during a 29–13 loss at the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 16. Alonso started in all 16 games in 2017 and recorded 115 combined tackles (79 solo), one pass deflection, and one sack.[25]

2018

[edit]

Alonso was named the starting strongside linebacker to begin the regular season in 2018. He started alongside rookie starting weakside linebacker Jerome Baker and middle linebacker Raekwon McMillan.[51]

In Week 2, Alonso collected a season-high 13 solo tackles in the Dolphins' 20–12 win at the New York Jets. The following week, Alonso made 15 combined tackles (seven solo) during a 28–2 victory against the Oakland Raiders in Week 3.[52]

Alonso once again received criticism for late hits on quarterbacks. He received a personal foul penalty and subsequent fine after colliding with a sliding Andrew Luck during a week 12 loss to the Indianapolis Colts.[53] After a similar hit on Josh Allen during a week 17 tilt against the Buffalo Bills, Alonso was ejected from that game after a scuffle broke out between the Bills and Dolphins.[54]

New Orleans Saints (first stint)

[edit]

On September 1, 2019, Alonso was traded to the New Orleans Saints in exchange for linebacker Vince Biegel.[55] As a reserve linebacker, Alonso totaled 31 combined tackles on the season. He suffered another anterior cruciate ligament injury during the Saints' playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings.[56] He was placed on the active/physically unable to perform list (PUP) at the start of training camp on August 1, 2020.[57] He was moved to the reserve/PUP list at the start of the regular season on September 5, 2020.[58]

San Francisco 49ers

[edit]

On November 2, 2020, Alonso was traded to the San Francisco 49ers with a conditional fifth-round pick in the 2021 NFL draft in exchange for LB Kwon Alexander.[59] Alonso was eligible to practice with the Saints and 49ers since October 19, 2020, but the 49ers declined to activate him from the PUP list by November 14, 2020, and he was ineligible to return during the season.[60] He was released with a failed physical designation on November 23.[61]

New Orleans Saints (second stint)

[edit]

On August 5, 2022, Alonso signed with the Saints.[62]

Retirement

[edit]

On August 6, 2022, Alonso announced his retirement from professional football, after signing with the New Orleans Saints the day before.[63]

NFL career statistics

[edit]
Year Team Games Tackles Fumbles Interceptions
GP GS Cmb Solo Ast Sck FF FR Yds TD PD Int Yds Avg Lng TD
2013 BUF 16 16 159 87 72 2.0 1 2 13 0 4 4 38 9.5 32 0
2014 BUF 0 0 Did not play due to injury
2015 PHI 11 1 43 30 13 0.0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0.0 0 0
2016 MIA 15 15 115 69 46 0.0 1 4 2 0 4 2 70 35.0 60T 1
2017 MIA 16 16 115 79 36 1.0 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 0.0 0 0
2018 MIA 15 15 125 79 46 0.0 3 1 0 0 6 3 30 10.0 15 0
2019 NO 13 4 31 25 6 0.0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0.0 0 0
Career 86 67 588 369 219 3.0 7 7 15 0 17 10 138 13.8 60T 1

References

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[edit]
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Kiko Alonso

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from Grokipedia
Kristian "Kiko" Alonso (born August 14, 1990) is a former American football linebacker who played professionally in the National Football League (NFL) for six seasons.[1] Born in Newton, Massachusetts, Alonso attended the University of Oregon, where he starred as a linebacker for the Ducks football team from 2008 to 2012.[1] He was selected by the Buffalo Bills in the second round (46th overall) of the 2013 NFL Draft after being originally picked by the St. Louis Rams and traded.[1] Alonso burst onto the NFL scene as a rookie in 2013, leading the league with 159 tackles and recording four interceptions, earning second-team Associated Press Defensive Rookie of the Year honors.[1] His promising start was derailed by a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee during the 2014 offseason, causing him to miss the entire season.[2] In March 2015, the Bills traded Alonso to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for running back LeSean McCoy.[3] He appeared in nine games for the Eagles that year before injuries limited his play, then signed with the Miami Dolphins in 2016, where he led the team with 115 tackles and notched a career-highlight pick-six interception return for a touchdown against the San Diego Chargers.[4][5] Alonso continued with the Dolphins through 2018, amassing 588 combined tackles, 10 interceptions, and three sacks over his career across five teams, including stints with the New Orleans Saints in 2019—where he suffered his third career ACL tear in a playoff game—and the San Francisco 49ers in 2020.[1][6] Persistent knee issues hampered his later years, leading to limited appearances. In August 2022, after briefly signing a one-day contract with the Saints, Alonso announced his retirement from the NFL at age 31.[7]

Early years

Early life

Kristian "Kiko" Alonso was born on August 14, 1990, in Newton, Massachusetts, to parents Carlos and Monica Alonso.[1] His father, Carlos, was born in Cuba before being raised in Puerto Rico, while his mother, Monica, hails from Colombia, instilling a strong Hispanic cultural influence in the family from an early age.[8] The couple raised three sons, including Kiko and his two brothers, older sibling Carlos—a former minor league baseball prospect—and younger brother Lucas.[9] The Alonso family relocated several times during Kiko's early childhood due to his father's career as a computer engineer, first moving from Massachusetts to Texas for a period before settling in the Northern California suburb of Los Gatos when Kiko was eight years old.[8] This bilingual household emphasized Spanish alongside English, reflecting their Cuban and Colombian roots, and Kiko spent summers visiting family in Colombia, which deepened his connection to his heritage.[10] These cultural elements shaped his upbringing, fostering a sense of identity tied to Latin American traditions amid frequent changes in environment. As a young child, Alonso displayed an early interest in sports, particularly baseball, which he pursued initially, though he showed less enthusiasm for football at that stage.[11][12]

High school career

Alonso attended Los Gatos High School in Los Gatos, California, where he emerged as a standout athlete in football.[13] He did not begin playing organized football until his freshman year but quickly developed into a two-way player, excelling as both a linebacker on defense and a tight end on offense.[8] During his senior season in 2007, Alonso recorded 150 tackles, including 81 solo stops and 27 quarterback sacks, leading the De Anza League and Central Coast Section in tackles while ranking 32nd in California with an average of 12.5 tackles per game.[13] On offense, he contributed 35 receptions for 559 yards and scored 42 points, helping the Wildcats to a strong record.[13] His performance earned him recognition as the 38th-best national linebacker prospect by SuperPrep.com, PrepStar all-West Region honors, a spot on Scout.com's California Top 100 (No. 83), first-team All-Northern California defense by GoldenStatePreps.com, and third-team all-state defender by CalHiSports.com.[13] Despite being lightly recruited out of a competitive Northern California talent pool near the University of California, Berkeley, Alonso drew interest from several programs and verbally committed to the University of Oregon in October 2007 before signing a National Letter of Intent in February 2008.[14][15]

College career

University of Oregon

Alonso joined the University of Oregon football program in 2008 after being recruited as a versatile athlete from Los Gatos High School in California. He redshirted his true freshman year to develop physically and learn the Ducks' defensive scheme. As a redshirt freshman in 2009, Alonso transitioned from safety to linebacker, appearing in all 13 games primarily on special teams and in defensive rotations, recording 16 tackles (13 solo) and one forced fumble while contributing to Oregon's 10-3 season that culminated in a 30-7 victory over Ohio State in the Rose Bowl.[16][17] In 2010, his sophomore year, Alonso was suspended for much of the season due to a DUI arrest and then suffered a knee injury during spring practice, limiting him to just one game and one assisted tackle as Oregon advanced to the BCS National Championship Game against Auburn, where the Ducks fell 22-19 despite a strong defensive effort overall.[16] He used the time to rehabilitate and study under defensive coordinator Nick Aliotti, refining his skills as a middle linebacker in Oregon's hybrid 3-4 scheme that emphasized speed and versatility to complement the team's high-octane offense. By 2011, as a junior and team co-captain, Alonso earned a starting role at inside linebacker, posting 46 tackles (28 solo), 6 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, and 2 interceptions in 12 games, including a standout performance in the Rose Bowl where he intercepted a pass and recorded five tackles to earn Defensive Player of the Game honors in a 45-38 win over Wisconsin; he received All-Pac-12 honorable mention for his contributions to a 12-2 season.[15][18] Alonso's senior year in 2012 marked his breakout as Oregon's leading tackler, with 81 tackles (58 solo), 14 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 4 interceptions (tied for team lead), and 2 forced fumbles over 12 games, helping anchor a defense that supported the Ducks' 12-1 record and a 35-17 Fiesta Bowl victory over Kansas State.[16] His instincts and range in the middle linebacker role were pivotal in maintaining Oregon's balanced attack under head coach Chip Kelly, earning him second-team All-Pac-12 honors from league coaches. Over his career, Alonso amassed 144 tackles, 21 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and 6 interceptions, evolving into a key leader on a defense known for its aggressive, turnover-forcing style.[1]

Suspension

In May 2011, Kiko Alonso was arrested on charges of first-degree burglary, first-degree criminal mischief, and first-degree criminal trespass after breaking into an off-campus apartment while intoxicated, mistaking it for a teammate's residence.[19] Oregon head coach Chip Kelly responded by indefinitely suspending Alonso from the football team, citing a violation of team rules.[20] This marked the second major disciplinary action against Alonso during his college career, following a suspension that limited him throughout most of the 2010 campaign due to a DUI arrest (though he appeared in one game).[21] Alonso pleaded guilty to the reduced charge of first-degree criminal mischief in Lane County Circuit Court, receiving a sentence of two years' probation, 200 hours of community service, and mandatory alcohol treatment counseling.[22] The probation terms prohibited alcohol possession and required regular check-ins, aligning with NCAA eligibility guidelines that could have jeopardized his remaining years if violated further.[23] Kelly reinstated Alonso in early September 2011 after he completed initial probation requirements and demonstrated personal accountability, allowing him to participate starting with the season opener against Nevada.[24] However, the incident strained team dynamics initially, forcing defensive adjustments during preseason and early practices without one of their projected starters, though the Ducks adapted with depth at linebacker. Following a breakout senior season in 2012, Alonso declared for the 2013 NFL Draft, citing a desire to advance his professional career amid lingering concerns over past disciplinary history and injury risks.[25] This decision avoided potential NCAA eligibility complications from probation oversight but left Oregon without his leadership for the 2013 campaign; the Ducks still thrived under new coach Mark Helfrich, posting an 11-2 record and securing a victory in the 2013 Alamo Bowl. In reflections on the suspension, Alonso acknowledged his growth, stating he had "made a lot of mistakes and... learned from them," crediting the experience with maturing him into a more focused athlete.[25] Kelly later praised Alonso's turnaround, noting he "learned a valuable lesson from his whole experience."[26] Post-suspension, Alonso focused on pre-draft preparation, training at a facility in Oregon to rebuild strength after prior ACL tears while undergoing medical evaluations at the 2013 NFL Scouting Combine, where teams scrutinized his injury history and character amid the disciplinary record.

Professional career

Buffalo Bills (2013–2014)

Alonso was selected by the Buffalo Bills in the second round (46th overall) of the 2013 NFL Draft.[1] He signed a four-year rookie contract worth $4.3 million with the team on May 14, 2013.[27] As a middle linebacker in defensive coordinator Doug Marrone's scheme, Alonso quickly established himself as a key contributor, leveraging his college-honed instincts for run defense and coverage to anchor the Bills' front seven.[28] In his rookie season, Alonso started all 16 games and led the Bills with 159 combined tackles (87 solo), while adding four interceptions (tied for the NFL lead at the time), two sacks, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery.[1] His ball-hawking ability shone early, as he intercepted four passes through the first four games, disrupting opposing offenses and earning him the nickname "The Legend of Kiko" among fans.[28] For his performance, Alonso was named the 2013 Defensive Rookie of the Year by the Professional Football Writers of America (PFWA), finishing second in Associated Press Defensive Rookie of the Year voting.[29][30] Alonso's 2014 season was derailed before it began when he suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee during an offseason workout in Oregon on July 1.[30] The injury required surgery and a projected seven- to nine-month recovery, causing him to miss the entire year and leaving a void in Buffalo's linebacker corps.[31] As Alonso entered the third year of his rookie contract in 2014—set to earn approximately $685,000 in base salary—trade speculation intensified following his injury, with reports emerging that the Bills were fielding offers for the promising but sidelined defender.[27] These discussions culminated in his eventual trade to the Philadelphia Eagles in March 2015, marking the end of his brief but impactful tenure in Buffalo.[3]

Philadelphia Eagles (2015)

On March 4, 2015, the Philadelphia Eagles acquired linebacker Kiko Alonso from the Buffalo Bills in exchange for running back LeSean McCoy, with the deal becoming official on March 10 upon the start of the NFL league year.[3] The trade brought Alonso to Philadelphia as a key addition to the defense, though he was still rehabilitating from a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee sustained during the 2013 offseason, which had caused him to miss the entire 2014 season.[32] Alonso entered the 2015 season under defensive coordinator Billy Davis, adapting to the Eagles' 3-4 base scheme that emphasized versatile inside linebackers capable of run support, coverage, and blitzing.[33] Davis praised Alonso's length, speed, and well-rounded skill set, noting his potential to rotate alongside starters like Mychal Kendricks and Jordan Hicks in a group designed for multiple packages to confuse offenses.[34] Despite the transition from Buffalo's scheme, Alonso played in the first two games without starting, recording seven tackles while contributing to early defensive efforts against the run.[35] However, Alonso's season was derailed by a partial tear of the same left ACL during the Eagles' Week 2 loss to the Dallas Cowboys on September 20, 2015, leading to his placement on the injured reserve/designated to return list.[36] He underwent evaluation by specialists, including Dr. James Andrews, and avoided full surgery, allowing for a projected month-long recovery without ending his campaign.[37] Alonso missed Weeks 3–9 but returned in Week 10 against the Dallas Cowboys on November 8, gradually increasing his snaps to 55% of defensive plays over the final eight contests.[38] In 11 games overall (one start), he tallied 43 tackles (30 solo), two tackles for loss, and one interception, providing solid but limited production amid the injury setbacks.[1] Following the Eagles' 7–9 finish and the midseason firing of head coach Chip Kelly, the team traded Alonso to the Miami Dolphins on March 9, 2016, along with cornerback Byron Maxwell and the 13th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, in exchange for the eighth overall selection.[39] This move allowed Philadelphia to move up in the draft while parting ways with Alonso after his abbreviated tenure marked by recovery challenges.[40]

Miami Dolphins (2016–2018)

On March 9, 2016, the Miami Dolphins acquired linebacker Kiko Alonso from the Philadelphia Eagles in a trade that sent the Dolphins' No. 8 overall draft pick, along with cornerback Byron Maxwell and the No. 13 pick, to Philadelphia.[40] Shortly after the trade, Alonso agreed to a restructured two-year contract extension worth $2.8 million, adding a year to his rookie deal and providing a raise from his scheduled $941,418 base salary for 2016.[41] This move positioned him as the starting middle linebacker in Miami's 4-3 defensive scheme, a system that better suited his skill set compared to the 3-4 alignment he had played in Philadelphia, allowing him to leverage his speed and range against the run and in pass coverage.[42] In his first season with the Dolphins, Alonso started all 15 games he played, recording 115 combined tackles (69 solo), two interceptions—including a pick-six in a 31-24 win over the San Diego Chargers—and four pass deflections, leading the team in total tackles.[43] Despite a history of knee injuries, including a full ACL tear in 2014 with Buffalo and a partial tear in 2015 with Philadelphia, Alonso managed a minor hamstring issue that sidelined him for one game in Week 14 but remained durable overall, contributing to Miami's postseason appearance for the first time since 2008.[44] He also forced one fumble and recovered four, showcasing his playmaking ability from the middle linebacker spot. Late in the year, Alonso suffered a broken right thumb in a December 4 game against Baltimore, requiring surgery, but he returned for the regular-season finale and the wild-card playoff loss to Pittsburgh.[45] Alonso's performance earned him a four-year contract extension through 2020 worth $28.9 million, with $18.5 million guaranteed, signed on March 21, 2017.[46] In 2017, fully recovered from his thumb surgery, he started all 16 games, again leading the Dolphins with 115 combined tackles (79 solo), while adding one sack, six tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles.[47] His consistent tackling anchored the front seven, and he emerged as a locker room leader, mentoring younger linebackers like Raekwon McMillan during training camp and providing guidance based on his own experiences with adversity.[48] During the 2018 season, Alonso started all 15 games he played, posting career highs with 125 combined tackles (79 solo) and three interceptions, plus six pass deflections and three forced fumbles, finishing second on the team in tackles behind safety Reshad Jones.[49] He dealt with minor knee and ankle issues but missed no games due to them, continuing to set the tone in Miami's 4-3 defense with his aggressive pursuit and turnover creation, including a key fumble recovery at the goal line in a win over Chicago.[50] As a veteran presence, Alonso helped stabilize the linebacker group amid roster turnover, emphasizing preparation and resilience in team meetings.[51] His tenure ended when the Dolphins traded him to the New Orleans Saints on September 1, 2019, in exchange for linebacker Vince Biegel, as part of Miami's roster rebuild.[52]

New Orleans Saints (2019)

On September 1, 2019, the New Orleans Saints acquired linebacker Kiko Alonso from the Miami Dolphins in exchange for linebacker Vince Biegel, bolstering their linebacker depth ahead of the regular season.[53] The trade allowed the Saints to add a veteran inside linebacker familiar with a 4-3 defensive alignment, fitting the scheme run by defensive coordinator Dennis Allen under head coach Sean Payton.[54] In the 2019 season, Alonso appeared in 13 games for the Saints, making four starts while primarily serving in rotational defensive duties and on special teams coverage units.[55] He recorded 31 total tackles, including 25 solo stops, contributing to New Orleans' top-ranked defense that season.[56] His role emphasized versatility, with Alonso often deploying as a nickel linebacker or in sub-packages to support starters Demario Davis and A.J. Klein, though his prior ACL injuries limited him to a depth position.[57] Alonso integrated effectively into Allen's aggressive, zone-heavy scheme, which prioritized instinctive play and run support from the second level.[58] However, his stint ended abruptly in the NFC divisional playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings on January 5, 2020, when he suffered a torn ACL in his right knee—his third such injury in six years—sidelining him for the remainder of the postseason.[6] Following the injury, Alonso agreed to a restructured contract on March 17, 2020, reducing his base salary to create cap space for the Saints amid salary cap constraints.[59]

San Francisco 49ers (2020)

Alonso was traded to the San Francisco 49ers from the New Orleans Saints on November 2, 2020, in exchange for linebacker Kwon Alexander and a conditional fifth-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.[60] The acquisition provided the 49ers with veteran linebacker depth amid injuries, with Alonso expected to contribute primarily on special teams based on his prior experience in that phase during the 2019 season with New Orleans. However, still recovering from a torn ACL sustained in January 2020, Alonso remained inactive and did not appear in any regular-season games for San Francisco. On November 23, 2020, the 49ers waived him with a failed physical designation.[61]

New Orleans Saints and retirement (2022)

After sitting out the entire 2021 NFL season due to ongoing recovery from injuries, Kiko Alonso attempted a comeback by signing a one-year contract with the New Orleans Saints on August 5, 2022, following a successful workout with the team.[62] This marked his second stint with the Saints, where he had previously played in 2019. Alonso participated in just one training camp practice on August 5 before deciding against continuing his playing career.[63][64] On August 6, 2022, Alonso announced his retirement from the NFL, a day after signing with the Saints.[65] The decision was described as personal and not stemming from any new injury sustained during the practice, though it came amid a history of significant physical toll from multiple anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears suffered throughout his career, including in 2013, 2016, and 2019.[66][67] He did not appear in any preseason or regular-season games during this brief return. The Saints subsequently placed him on the reserve/retired list, effectively releasing him from the roster.[64][27] Alonso's retirement concluded a professional career from 2013 to 2019, during which he appeared in 86 games and recorded 588 tackles.[1] While specific public reflections from Alonso on his retirement were limited, the move allowed him to step away from the demands of the league after years of battling injuries that had sidelined him since his last game in January 2020. As of 2025, there have been no reported professional activities or public endeavors from Alonso following his retirement.[7]

Career statistics and accomplishments

NFL statistics

Kiko Alonso's professional NFL statistics encompass his regular-season and postseason performances as a linebacker from 2013 to 2019, with no recorded defensive contributions in 2020 or 2021 prior to his retirement.[1]

Regular Season Statistics

YearTeamGames PlayedTackles (Solo/Assisted/Total)SacksInterceptionsForced FumblesFumble Recoveries
2013BUF1687/72/1592.0412
2015PHI1130/13/430.0100
2016MIA1569/46/1150.0214
2017MIA1679/36/1151.0020
2018MIA1579/46/1250.0331
2019NOR1325/6/310.0000
Career Regular Season Totals: 86 games played, 369/219/588 tackles, 3.0 sacks, 10 interceptions, 7 forced fumbles, 7 fumble recoveries.[1]

Team Breakdown (Regular Season)

Postseason Statistics

Alonso appeared in two postseason games, with limited statistical contributions.[1]
YearTeamGames PlayedTackles (Solo/Assisted/Total)SacksInterceptionsForced FumblesFumble Recoveries
2016MIA11/5/60.0000
2019NOR11/1/20.0000
Career Postseason Totals: 2 games played, 2/6/8 tackles, 0 sacks, 0 interceptions, 0 forced fumbles, 0 fumble recoveries.[1]

Awards and honors

During his time at the University of Oregon, Kiko Alonso earned second-team All-Pac-12 honors as a senior in 2012, after recording 87 tackles, four interceptions, and two forced fumbles across 13 starts.[68] He was also recognized as the Defensive MVP of the 2012 Rose Bowl, where Oregon defeated Wisconsin 45–38, contributing five tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, and a crucial interception that set up the game-winning touchdown.[69] In the NFL, Alonso's standout rookie season with the Buffalo Bills in 2013 led to two major accolades from the Professional Football Writers of America (PFWA): he was named Defensive Rookie of the Year after leading the Bills with 159 tackles (third-most in the league) and four interceptions, and he was selected to the PFWA All-Rookie Team.[29][70] Alonso's promising start was derailed by injuries, including a torn ACL in the 2014 preseason that caused him to miss the entire 2014 season and limited his play in subsequent years; as a result, he never received Pro Bowl or All-Pro selections during his eight-year NFL career.[71]

References

  1. Kiko Alonso Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Draft, College
  2. Bills LB Kiko Alonso tears ACL - Philadelphia - 6ABC
  3. Eagles, Bills to swap LeSean McCoy for Kiko Alonso - NFL.com
  4. Kiko Alonso quickly turned career around with Miami Dolphins - ESPN
  5. Alonso's pick-6 of Rivers lifts Dolphins to wild 31-24 win - NFL.com
  6. Source: Saints LB Kiko Alonso has torn ACL for third time - ESPN
  7. Linebacker Kiko Alonso retires one day after signing with Saints, per ...
  8. Behind the 'Legend Of Kiko Alonso' - Philadelphia Magazine
  9. Kiko Alonso embraces South Florida — in English and Spanish
  10. Kiko Alonso reveals his comfort in Miami, how Spanish was ... - ESPN
  11. Legend of Bills rookie Kiko Alonso grows - even if he won't talk
  12. The calm and crucibles of Kiko Alonso - Daily Emerald
  13. Kiko Alonso, Miami Dolphins,
  14. Los Gatos linebacker Alonso commits to Oregon - The Mercury News
  15. Eagles' Kiko Alonso's past is no fairy tale - Erie Times-News
  16. Kiko Alonso College Stats, School, Draft, Gamelog, Splits
  17. Kiko Alonso - Football - University of Oregon Athletics
  18. Kiko Alonso, Oregon, Inside Linebacker - 247 Sports
  19. Take 2: All-Pac-12 risers - ESPN
  20. Oregon LB Kiko Alonso suspended - ESPN
  21. Oregon Chip Kelly said he is 'really, really, really disappointed' in the ...
  22. Oregon LB Alonso suspended for 2010 season | FOX Sports
  23. Oregon's Alonso pleads guilty - ESPN - Pac-12 Blog
  24. Oregon football: Kiko Alonso pleads guilty, gets probation ...
  25. Oregon LB reinstated for Nevada game | FOX Sports
  26. Q&A with Oregon senior linebacker Kiko Alonso - oregonlive.com
  27. Eagles' Kiko Alonso's past is no fairy tale - The Philadelphia Inquirer
  28. Kiko Alonso | NFL Contracts & Salaries - Spotrac.com
  29. 'Legend' of rookie LB Alonso growing in Buffalo - ESPN
  30. Kiko Alonso named PFWA Defensive Rookie of the Year - Buffalo Bills
  31. Bills LB Kiko Alonso tears ACL - ESPN
  32. Kiko Alonso (torn ACL) placed on Buffalo Bills' NFI list - NFL.com
  33. LeSean McCoy traded to Bills - ESPN
  34. Eagles have rotation they want at inside linebacker - Sports Illustrated
  35. Billy Davis: Kiko Alonso has it all; LBs will rotate – NBC Sports ...
  36. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/A/AlonKi00/gamelog/2015/
  37. Eagles LB Kiko Alonso suffers partially torn ACL - NFL.com
  38. Kiko Alonso avoids ACL tear, could return in one month - NFL.com
  39. Eagles LB Kiko Alonso (knee injury) to return against Cowboys - ESPN
  40. Eagles Acquire 8th-Overall Pick - Philadelphia Eagles
  41. Dolphins complete trade for Byron Maxwell, Kiko Alonso - ESPN
  42. Dolphins restructure Byron Maxwell and Kiko Alonso's contract after ...
  43. Dolphins have high hopes for LB Kiko Alonso - ESPN
  44. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/A/AlonKi00/gamelog/2016/
  45. Kiko Alonso Injury: Updates on Dolphins Star's Hamstring and Return
  46. Dolphins LB Alonso undergoes surgery to repair broken thumb
  47. Kiko Alonso signs three-year extension with Dolphins - NFL.com
  48. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/A/AlonKi00/gamelog/2017/
  49. Miami Dolphins: Emerging leader Kiko Alonso helps lift Raekwon ...
  50. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/A/AlonKi00/gamelog/2018/
  51. Kiko Alonso Injury - Updates, Status, History and News | FOX Sports
  52. 'Big Play Machine' Kiko Alonso Setting The Tone On Defense
  53. Dealing Dolphins send LB Kiko Alonso to Saints - ESPN
  54. New Orleans Saints acquire linebacker Kiko Alonso
  55. Dolphins Trading LB Kiko Alonso to Saints - 12up.com
  56. Reports: Saints bring back LB Kiko Alonso on 1-year deal
  57. Saints Team and Player Stats | NewOrleansSaints.com
  58. Versatility (and LB Coach Mike Nolan) is Reason Why Saints Traded ...
  59. The Saints Defense has Turned the Corner Yet Again | Canal Street ...
  60. Saints, Kiko Alonso Restructure Contract - Pro Football Rumors
  61. 49ers trade Kwon Alexander to Saints for Kiko Alonso, fifth-round pick
  62. 49ers Waive Linebacker Kiko Alonso
  63. Saints To Sign LB Kiko Alonso - Pro Football Rumors
  64. Kiko Alonso retires after one practice with Saints - NBC Sports
  65. Saints LB Kiko Alonso To Retire - Pro Football Rumors
  66. Kiko Alonso Retires After Attempted NFL Comeback With Saints, per ...
  67. Kiko Alonso retires 1 day after re-signing with the Saints: source
  68. Saints LB Kiko Alonso retires from the NFL - Canal Street Chronicles
  69. Pac-12 announces 2012 all-conference team, individual honors
  70. Kiko Alonso comes from 'dark moment' to win Defensive MVP at ...
  71. 2013 PFWA NFL All-Rookie Team - The Football Database
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