The Broncos' Draft Decision: A Hindsight Reflection
In the 2018 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos found themselves faced with a crucial decision holding the No. 5 overall pick. They ultimately chose Bradley Chubb, a linebacker from North Carolina State, aiming to bolster their defense. Chubb’s tenure with the Broncos was marked by significant contributions, yet the shadow of another potential pick—Josh Allen—continues to loom over this past draft decision.
Chubb quickly proved his worth on the field. Over his time with the Broncos, he played in 49 games, showcasing his resilience and talent. His stats were commendable: 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and a solitary yet memorable interception. His performance earned him Pro Bowl recognition, underscoring his status as one of the league's defensive standouts. Despite his individual success, Chubb was eventually traded to the Miami Dolphins, a move that concluded his chapter with the Broncos.
On the other side of the narrative is Josh Allen, who was selected by the Buffalo Bills with the No. 8 overall pick in the same draft. Under Allen’s leadership, the Bills clinched four consecutive AFC East titles starting in 2020. His impact on the team has been profound, transforming the Bills into perennial contenders and showcasing his prowess as a quarterback.
Reflecting on the 2018 draft, former Broncos General Manager John Elway openly discussed his missed opportunity in not selecting 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, acknowledging the depth of his regret and the potential that Allen had even then.
Elway’s sentiment was underscored during a casual golf outing with Allen. "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. This anecdote highlights both the personal and professional impact of draft decisions, and how they resonate long after the fact.
The comparison between Chubb and Allen provides a compelling narrative about the unpredictability and pressures inherent in the draft process. While Chubb's contributions were significant, Allen's ascension into one of the NFL's elite quarterbacks represents a massive what-if for the Broncos. For Denver, the decision to pass on Allen remains a poignant example of the high stakes and enduring consequences of draft choices.
Such reflections are part and parcel of football’s unpredictable nature. Players excel in different environments and under varied team dynamics, making the draft a nuanced and complex affair. In 2018, the Broncos made a calculated decision that seemed prudent given their defensive needs. However, the subsequent rise of Allen as a franchise quarterback for the Bills casts a long, reflective shadow over that choice.
As the NFL continues to evolve, past draft decisions will always serve as fodder for analysis and reflection. For teams, the challenges lie not just in evaluating talent but also in predicting future performance—a blend of science, art, and a bit of fortune. Through it all, the stories of players like Bradley Chubb and Josh Allen remind fans and analysts alike of the ever-present tension between potential and realization.