The Denver Broncos' 2018 Draft Decision: A Double-Edged Sword
In 2018, the Denver Broncos faced a pivotal moment in their franchise’s history with the No. 5 overall pick in the NFL Draft. Opting for defensive prowess, the Broncos selected Bradley Chubb, a move that left many wondering about the alternative paths they could have taken.
Bradley Chubb quickly made his mark with the Broncos, showcasing his talent over 49 games. During his tenure with the team, Chubb amassed an impressive 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and even snagged an interception. His excellent performance earned him Pro Bowl recognition, validating Denver's initial faith in his abilities.
Despite Chubb's individual success, there remains an air of what-ifs surrounding the Broncos' 2018 draft decision. John Elway, the then-General Manager for the Broncos, expressed his lingering regret over passing on the chance to draft quarterback Josh 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 admitted. This candid reflection underscores the gravity of draft decisions and their lasting impact on franchise fortunes.
Josh Allen, taken by the Buffalo Bills with the No. 8 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, has since become one of the league’s premier quarterbacks. Under Allen's leadership, the Bills have clinched four consecutive AFC East titles since 2020, a testament to his transformative impact on the team.
Elway’s reflection on his draft day decision is tinged with a blend of personal and professional contemplation. Recalling a recent encounter with Allen, Elway mused, “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.” This anecdote captures the human side of the draft process, where decisions made in an instant can resonate for years.
Transitioning to a new chapter, Bradley Chubb was eventually traded to the Miami Dolphins. This move marked the end of his impactful stint in Denver but opened up fresh opportunities in Miami’s defensive lineup. While the trade might have closed a chapter for the Broncos, Chubb's time in Denver remains a noteworthy period for both parties.
The 2018 NFL Draft will always stand as a testament to the unpredictable nature of the sport—a single decision branching into countless possibilities. As for the Denver Broncos, the choice to draft Bradley Chubb exemplifies the highs and lows that come with building a roster. While Chubb delivered on his promise, the specter of what could have been with Josh Allen continues to loom large.
In the ever-evolving narrative of the NFL, such moments of reflection remind teams and fans alike of the delicate balance between talent evaluation and the sheer unpredictability of player development. Whether it's the tackles and sacks recorded by Chubb or the AFC East titles clinched by Allen, each decision paints a broader picture of the league's intricate tapestry.