In the intricate tapestry of the NFL Draft, certain moments become pivotal points of discussion and retrospection, especially when it involves consequential decisions made by General Managers. The 2018 NFL Draft holds such a moment for the Denver Broncos, etched not just in the annals of the team’s history but also in the reflection of its then-GM, John Elway.
The Draft Decision
In 2018, the Denver Broncos held the No. 5 overall pick. With the team looking to strengthen multiple aspects of their roster, the decision-making room was abuzz with potential picks who could shape the franchise's future. Ultimately, the Broncos opted to select Bradley Chubb, a dynamic defensive end from North Carolina State, noted for his ferocity on the field and potential to anchor the Broncos' defense.
Despite the excitement surrounding Chubb’s selection, another quarterback prospect also deeply intrigued Elway: Josh Allen. “That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh,” Elway candidly reflected. “And I loved him, right? … he was my type.” Yet, the Broncos’ direction was set, and Chubb donned the blue and orange.
The Impact of Bradley Chubb
Bradley Chubb’s tenure with the Broncos saw moments of triumph and promise. Chubb played in 49 games for Denver, demonstrating his value on numerous occasions. Over his stint, he amassed 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and even snagged an interception. These stats not only highlighted his prowess on the field but also solidified his importance to the Broncos' defensive schemes.
Chubb's performances did not go unnoticed as he earned Pro Bowl recognition, signifying his elite status among defensive players during his time with the Broncos. However, as NFL careers often unfold, Chubb’s journey with Denver came to a close when he was traded to the Miami Dolphins. His legacy with the Broncos remained as a testament to his contributions to the franchise during his stay.
The Emergence of Josh Allen
Meanwhile, Josh Allen found his home with the Buffalo Bills, taken with the No. 8 overall pick in that same 2018 Draft. Allen's trajectory from a promising prospect to a bonafide NFL superstar rapidly took shape. By 2020, Allen had not only established himself as a leader but propelled the Bills to clinch four consecutive AFC East titles. This remarkable achievement underscored Allen’s influence and effectiveness as a quarterback, fulfilling the potential that Elway once saw.
The significance of that missed opportunity often lingered in Elway’s mind. Reflecting on a light-hearted yet telling encounter, Elway shared, “Last year I played golf with him, and I'm wondering, how long is it going to take him to realize that I passed on him and took Bradley Chubb instead? And it took him two-and-a-half holes.” Such moments, though framed in jest, crystallize the weight of decisions in the high-stakes world of the NFL.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
The 2018 NFL Draft serves as an illustrative example of the unpredictable nature of talent evaluation and decision-making in professional sports. For the Denver Broncos and John Elway, the choice of Bradley Chubb was made with the earnest belief in his abilities to bolster their defense. And while Chubb delivered commendable performances, the shadow of what could have been with Josh Allen remains.
As Bradley Chubb continues his career with the Dolphins and Josh Allen propels the Bills toward further successes, the echoes of that draft linger, reminding fans and officials alike of the painstaking intricacies involved in shaping the future of a franchise. The narratives of Chubb and Allen continue to unfold, each player carving out his distinct path in the ever-challenging theater of the NFL.