In the competitive world of the NFL, draft decisions can make or break a general manager's career. For John Elway and the Denver Broncos, the 2018 NFL Draft was a pivotal moment with enduring ramifications. Holding the No. 5 overall pick, the Broncos selected Bradley Chubb, a highly-touted defensive end who seemed poised to bolster their formidable defense. However, it is another player from that draft class, quarterback Josh Allen, who has evolved into a franchise cornerstone for the Buffalo Bills, leaving some to question Elway’s decision.
Draft Decisions
"That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh ... And I loved him, right? … he was my type," admitted John Elway in a moment of candid reflection. The Broncos' then-general manager was faced with a franchise-defining choice: to draft the powerful defensive presence of Bradley Chubb or take a chance on the raw but athletically gifted Josh Allen. Elway’s admiration for Allen’s potential was clear, but he ultimately opted for the immediate defensive upgrade.
Chubb, the No. 5 pick, didn't disappoint in terms of individual performance. Over his tenure with the Broncos, he played in 49 games, recording 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and even an interception. His ability to disrupt offenses also earned him a coveted Pro Bowl nod. These stats underscore Chubb's impact on the field, proving that he was a valuable addition to the Broncos' defense.
Josh Allen’s Rise
Meanwhile, Josh Allen was selected a few spots later, going to the Buffalo Bills with the No. 8 overall pick. Allen’s journey from a relatively unproven college prospect to an elite NFL quarterback has been nothing short of extraordinary. Under his leadership, the Bills have clinched four consecutive AFC East titles since 2020, a testament to his development and the team’s success.
Elway's bemusement about his draft-day decision is perhaps best captured in an anecdote involving a casual round of golf 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 light-hearted story underscores the mutual respect between the former GM and the star quarterback, despite the pivotal draft decision that forever linked their careers.
Chubb’s Career and Transition
Chubb’s time in Denver, while marked by individual accolades, culminated in a strategic move as the Broncos traded him to the Miami Dolphins. This trade signaled a shift in Denver’s team-building strategy and acknowledged the cyclical nature of NFL careers. While Chubb continues to bring his defensive prowess to Miami, the Broncos have yet to find their definitive answer at the quarterback position—an issue that Allen has resolved for the Bills in resounding fashion.
The 2018 NFL Draft serves as a pivotal case study in the impact of draft decisions. Both the Broncos and Bills made significant moves that year, and the outcomes for their franchises have been shaped accordingly. While Elway and the Broncos may always ponder the "what ifs" of taking Allen, Chubb's contributions should not be overlooked. The decisions made on draft day are gambles that echo through the years, influencing not only teams but also the careers of those involved.
As the NFL continues to evolve, fans and analysts alike can expect to see more draft-day decisions scrutinized, celebrated, or lamented. For now, the stories of Bradley Chubb and Josh Allen serve as powerful reminders of the complexity and unpredictability that define professional football.