The Draft Decision That Shaped Two Franchises
In the 2018 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos had the No. 5 overall pick, a position that carried significant implications for the franchise's future. With a wide array of talented prospects available, the Broncos made a pivotal decision: they selected Bradley Chubb, a standout defensive end from North Carolina State.
Chubb's selection was met with considerable enthusiasm. He brought a dynamic presence to Denver's defense, playing in 49 games and racking up 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and even nabbing an interception during his tenure with the team. His impact on the field earned him Pro Bowl recognition, underscoring his value to the Broncos. However, as the years progressed, it became evident that there might have been another path worth considering.
Josh Allen, a quarterback from Wyoming, found himself selected by the Buffalo Bills with the No. 8 overall pick in the same draft. Allen quickly proved to be a transformative figure for the Bills, leading the team to four consecutive AFC East titles since 2020. Under his leadership, the Bills have re-emerged as a powerhouse in the league, showcasing a remarkable turnaround fueled by Allen's exceptional skills and determination.
Reflecting on the decision not to draft Josh Allen, former Broncos General Manager John Elway has expressed his regret. "That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh," Elway admitted, acknowledging the gravity of the decision. "And I loved him, right? … he was my type." These words capture the sentiment of misspent opportunity and the thin lines that often separate good decisions from great ones.
The tale took another twist in a moment of poignant irony. Elway shared an anecdote that underlined the gravity of his decision. "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?" Elway recounted. "And it took him two-and-a-half holes." This reflective moment highlights the human side of these high-stakes decisions and the enduring aftershocks they can generate in the world of professional sports.
While Bradley Chubb made his mark in Denver, his journey with the Broncos came to an end when he was traded to the Miami Dolphins. His tenure in Denver will be remembered for his contributions and the potential he represented, but it's impossible to look back without contemplating what might have been if the Broncos had opted for Josh Allen instead.
As both teams continue on their distinct paths, the 2018 NFL Draft remains a critical juncture. For the Bills, the selection of Josh Allen has been a franchise-altering decision, anchoring them as contenders for years to come. For the Broncos, the decision to select Bradley Chubb and the subsequent reflections from Elway offer a compelling narrative about the intricate dance of drafts, decisions, and destinies in the NFL.