The Broncos' Draft Journey: From Chubb to Allen
In the high-stakes arena of the NFL Draft, decisions made in the war room can reverberate through a franchise's history. The Denver Broncos' choice in the 2018 NFL Draft serves as a prime example of just how impactful those selections can be.
Back in 2018, with the No. 5 overall pick, the Denver Broncos selected Bradley Chubb, a highly-touted defensive end known for his powerhouse performances. Chubb did not disappoint his new team. Over his tenure with the Broncos, Chubb played in 49 games, recording 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and even an interception. These impressive stats earned Chubb the recognition and honor of being named to the Pro Bowl—a testament to his on-field impact and prowess.
However, the 2018 Draft was also notable for the emergence of a standout quarterback, Josh Allen, who was selected by the Buffalo Bills with the No. 8 overall pick. Unlike Chubb's solid defensive contributions, Allen's trajectory has been nothing short of transformative for the Bills franchise. Under his leadership, Buffalo has clinched four consecutive AFC East titles since 2020, marking an era of sustained success and elevated performance.
Reflecting on the draft years later, former Broncos General Manager John Elway expressed regret over his decision not to draft Allen. "That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh ... And I loved him, right? … he was my type," Elway candidly admitted. These words underscore a poignant 'what if' scenario that often haunts decision-makers in professional sports.
Elway's admiration for Allen extends beyond traditional scouting. "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," he shared. This anecdote highlights not only Elway's acknowledgment of Allen's talent but also the personable nature of Allen himself, aware of the NFL narrative yet focused on his flourishing career.
Bradley Chubb's journey with the Denver Broncos ultimately took another turn. The dynamic defender was traded to the Miami Dolphins, marking the end of a significant chapter in his career with Denver. While his departure left a void, it also reflected the perpetual movement and strategy integral to NFL team management.
From the Broncos' selection of a valiant defender to the rise of Josh Allen as a franchise quarterback for the Bills, the 2018 NFL Draft continues to be a touchstone for conversations about draft strategies and their long-term implications. The decisions made during those pivotal moments shape the legacies of players, define the careers of general managers, and influence the fortunes of entire franchises.
The Denver Broncos, through the highs of Chubb's on-field heroics and the reflective regret over missing out on a quarterback sensation, encapsulate the complex and often unpredictable nature of NFL drafts. As the league evolves and new drafts approach, the 2018 picks remain a lesson in the impactful nature of each decision, reminding both current executives and hopeful players of the delicate balance in building a team destined for greatness.