Denver Broncos' 2018 Draft Decisions: Reflections and Results
In the 2018 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos found themselves armed with the No. 5 overall pick, a position of great potential and significant responsibility. The team ultimately chose Bradley Chubb, a decision that has since spurred both commendations for Chubb's tangible contributions on the field and speculations about what might have been.
Bradley Chubb's Impact in Denver
Bradley Chubb, a standout defensive end, made an immediate impact upon joining the Broncos. During his tenure in Denver, Chubb played in 49 games, racking up 144 tackles and recording 26 sacks. He also notched an interception and earned Pro Bowl recognition, cementing his reputation as a formidable presence on the defense. Chubb's physical prowess and consistent performance endeared him to Broncos fans and established him as a key part of the team's defensive lineup.
However, despite his individual successes, Chubb's time in Denver was punctuated by a significant organizational decision: his eventual trade to the Miami Dolphins. This move marked the end of an era for Chubb with the Broncos and signaled a new chapter in his professional career.
Josh Allen: The One That Got Away?
While the Broncos secured Chubb with their No. 5 pick, the Buffalo Bills made a franchise-altering decision three spots later by selecting quarterback Josh Allen with the No. 8 overall pick. Allen has since developed into one of the premier quarterbacks in the NFL. Under his leadership, the Bills have clinched four consecutive AFC East titles since 2020, a feat that underscores his value to the team and highlights the strategic acumen of the Bills' front office.
The contrast between Chubb's solid but ultimately limited impact in Denver and Allen's transformative role in Buffalo has not gone unnoticed, especially by former Broncos general manager John Elway. Elway candidly reflected on his decision-making process during the 2018 draft, admitting with hindsight that passing over Allen might have been a significant oversight.
"That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh ... And I loved him, right? … he was my type," Elway confessed. His words reveal both admiration for Allen's capabilities and a touch of regret over what could have been for the Broncos had they chosen the quarterback instead.
A Humorous Reflection
Elway's reflections extend beyond the confines of draft rooms and team meetings. In a light-hearted anecdote, he recounted a recent encounter with Allen on the golf course. "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 shared. This story highlights not just the professional ramifications of draft decisions but also the personal dynamics and lasting impressions they create.
Conclusion
As the dust settles on the decisions made in that pivotal 2018 NFL Draft, the Broncos, like all NFL teams, are reminded of the delicate balance between potential and production. Bradley Chubb's achievements with the Denver Broncos will be remembered fondly, and his career with the Miami Dolphins continues to evolve. Meanwhile, Josh Allen's ascent with the Buffalo Bills remains a testament to the profound impact a single draft pick can have on a franchise's fortunes.
The 2018 draft will forever serve as a powerful lesson in the unpredictable nature of talent evaluation and the enduring legacy of choices made in moments of high stakes. For the Denver Broncos and John Elway, it is a chapter marked by what was gained and a contemplation of what might have been.