In 2018, the Denver Broncos entered the NFL Draft with the No. 5 overall pick, pinning their hopes on strengthening their defense. They chose Bradley Chubb, a formidable linebacker with a promising future. Chubb's impact on the Broncos' defense was immediate and palpable. During his tenure in Denver, Chubb played in 49 games, racking up 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and even snagging an interception. His performance earned him Pro Bowl recognition, validating the Broncos' decision to select him.
However, in retrospect, some decisions come with a tinge of regret. John Elway, the Broncos' general manager at the time, reflected on the 2018 draft and the pivotal choice left on the board. "That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh ... And I loved him, right? … he was my type." Elway's admission of remorse points to quarterback Josh Allen, who went to the Buffalo Bills as the No. 8 overall pick that same year.
Allen's selection by the Bills has shaped up to be a franchise-altering decision. Since 2020, Allen has led Buffalo to four consecutive AFC East titles, reinstating a winning culture that had long eluded the team. Elway's anecdote about a chance encounter with Allen on the golf course illustrates the lingering 'what-ifs' that accompany high-stakes draft choices. "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."
While the Broncos benefitted from Chubb's prowess on the field, Allen's trajectory has left many pondering what could have been if Denver had opted to bolster their quarterback position with the Wyoming standout. The nature of the NFL Draft is such that it’s a realm of calculated risks and rewarded gambles. Projections and potential are often weighed against immediate needs and future ambitions.
Chubb’s journey with the Broncos came to an eventual end when he was traded to the Miami Dolphins. The expectations tied to his draft position and subsequent performance add a complex layer to the narrative of missed opportunities and second chances. Meanwhile, Allen's ascension with the Bills has not only solidified his status as one of the league's premier quarterbacks but has also made him a pivotal figure in Buffalo’s resurgence.
The Broncos' experience with Bradley Chubb and the tantalizing specter of Josh Allen is a microcosm of the multifaceted decisions that shape NFL franchises. It underscores the unpredictable nature of draft prospects and the enduring impact of those selections on a team’s legacy. Reflecting on these moments provides fans and analysts alike with a deeper understanding of the intricacies involved in building a team capable of contending for championships.