In the high-stakes arena of the NFL Draft, decisions made by general managers can shape the destiny of franchises for years to come. In 2018, the Denver Broncos, holding the No. 5 overall pick, faced a critical choice that has since become a significant talking point in football circles.
The 2018 NFL Draft Decision
With their No. 5 overall pick, the Denver Broncos selected Bradley Chubb, a highly touted defensive end from North Carolina State. Chubb's arrival in Denver was met with great anticipation, and over his tenure with the Broncos, he played in 49 games, recording an impressive 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and even an interception. His performances earned him Pro Bowl recognition, underscoring his value on the defensive line. Despite this, the Broncos eventually traded Chubb to the Miami Dolphins, signaling the end of his chapter with the team.
Josh Allen: The Road Not Taken
However, as Chubb's career with the Broncos unfolded, another narrative was brewing. Josh Allen, a quarterback from Wyoming, was picked by the Buffalo Bills with the No. 8 overall pick in the same draft. Allen's selection marked the beginning of a transformative era for the Bills. Under Allen's leadership, the Bills have clinched four consecutive AFC East titles since 2020, solidifying his status as one of the league's elite quarterbacks.
Reflections from John Elway
John Elway, the then-general manager of the Denver Broncos, has candidly reflected on the 2018 Draft decision. "That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh ... And I loved him, right? … he was my type," Elway admitted. These words reveal the weight of the choice that could have altered the Broncos' trajectory.
Elway's introspection continued with a personal anecdote that adds a human touch to the decision-making process in professional sports. "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," Elway shared. This remark encapsulates the lingering impact of decisions made in the draft war room.
Broncos' Defensive Standout vs. Bills' QB Phenomenon
While Bradley Chubb delivered solid performances for the Broncos, Josh Allen's rise with the Bills presents a stark contrast. Allen has elevated the Bills to perennial contenders, a testament to his significant influence on the field. His ability to perform under pressure and deliver winning seasons has had a reverberating impact on the franchise, something Elway recognizes as a missed opportunity for the Broncos.
The Lingering What-If
As both players continue their careers in the NFL, the 2018 Draft serves as a poignant reminder of the uncertainty and high stakes involved in draft decisions. Chubb's trade to the Miami Dolphins marks the end of one narrative thread, while Allen's success with the Bills continues to write another. John Elway's reflections provide a candid lens into the decision-making pressures faced by NFL executives and the long-lasting ramifications of their choices.
Ultimately, the 2018 NFL Draft will be remembered as much for the players chosen as for the opportunities missed. For the Denver Broncos, it remains a compelling chapter in their history, one that underscores the unpredictable nature of professional sports and the enduring significance of each draft pick.