A Look Back: Broncos' Draft Decisions and the Rise of Josh Allen
In the landscape of the NFL, draft decisions can set the tone for a franchise's future, often echoing for years. The Denver Broncos' 2018 draft day decisions offer a study in how talent evaluation and selection can ripple across seasons.
Holding the No. 5 overall pick in 2018, the Denver Broncos selected Bradley Chubb, a standout defensive end from North Carolina State. Chubb's tenure with the Broncos was notable; over 49 games, he amassed an impressive tally of 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and even nabbed an interception, earning Pro Bowl recognition along the way. Despite such contributions, Chubb's time in Denver was marked by more than just personal achievements.
Meanwhile, Josh Allen, a quarterback from Wyoming, was chosen by the Buffalo Bills at the No. 8 spot in the same draft. Allen quickly became a franchise cornerstone for the Bills, leading the team to clinch four consecutive AFC East titles since 2020. Under Allen's stewardship, the Bills transformed into perennial contenders, a reflection of his pivotal role on and off the field.
The divergent paths of Chubb and Allen invite reflection, especially in light of comments from John Elway, the Broncos' general manager during that critical draft. "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, underscoring the gravity of split-second decisions made in the war room.
Interestingly, Elway's respect and admiration for Allen have been consistent, even leading to moments of introspection. "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 recounted, highlighting the human aspect of decision-making in professional sports.
Chubb's journey took another turn when he was eventually traded to the Miami Dolphins, indicating a shift in the Broncos' strategic approach. While his impact in Denver was significant, the trade signals a new chapter for both the player and the team.
As the NFL continues to evolve, the draft and its resulting narratives remain central to the sport's allure. The 2018 draft will forever be a touchstone for the Broncos, a reminder of the delicate balance between potential and realization. It also stands as a testament to Josh Allen's capacity to alter the trajectory of a franchise—a testament Buffalo celebrates annually with each victorious season under his leadership.