In the unpredictable world of the NFL draft, hindsight often brings a wave of reflection and, sometimes, regret. Such is the case for former Denver Broncos General Manager John Elway, who now looks back at the 2018 NFL Draft with a notable sense of what might have been. The draft, a crucial event for shaping the future of NFL teams, is fraught with decisions that can either propel a team to glory or leave them pondering missed opportunities.
The Crucial Decision
In 2018, the Denver Broncos found themselves at a crossroads with the No. 5 overall pick. On one path was Josh Allen, a promising quarterback with a powerful arm and a competitive spirit. On the other, Bradley Chubb, an accomplished linebacker coming out of college with high expectations. Elway and his team of decision-makers ultimately chose Chubb, a move that seemed prudent at the time.
"That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh ... And I loved him, right? … he was my type," Elway later remarked, encapsulating the essence of drafting dilemmas in the NFL. These decisions are often made with the best information available and a dollop of intuition, yet their true impact is only revealed with time.
Josh Allen's Rise
Josh Allen did not have to wait long to join the league, as he was selected by the Buffalo Bills with the No. 8 overall pick. His tenure with the Bills has since been a story of growth and success. Under his leadership, the Bills have clinched four consecutive AFC East titles since 2020—a testament to Allen’s impact and the astuteness of Buffalo’s pick.
Elway humorously recalled a moment with Allen, illustrating the subtleties of their shared history. "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." The anecdote not only humanizes the weight of draft choices but also exemplifies the amiable relationship that can exist despite competitive stakes.
Bradley Chubb’s Contribution
Bradley Chubb's career with the Broncos, while not matching the transformative impact of Buffalo’s success with Allen, was far from inconsequential. Over a span of a little over four years, Chubb made significant contributions, playing in 49 games and recording 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and an interception. His performance earned him Pro Bowl recognition, solidifying his place as a valued player in the league.
Chubb’s journey eventually led him to the Miami Dolphins, marking the end of his chapter with the Broncos but not his influence on the game. Evaluating Chubb’s tenure in Denver reveals a mixed bag of achievements and injuries, underscoring the unpredictable nature of NFL careers.
Draft Decisions and Legacy
The story of Allen and Chubb serves as a compelling case study in the high-stakes game of drafting. For the Denver Broncos, the choice between a potential franchise quarterback and a top-tier linebacker encapsulates the perpetual gamble NFL teams face. Reflecting on past draft decisions, Elway’s candid admissions offer a rare glimpse into the pressures and potential second-guessing that defines the role of a general manager.
Ultimately, the 2018 draft underscores a broader truth in professional sports: talent evaluation is an inexact science, and even the most seasoned professionals must navigate the margin of error that comes with the territory. The ability to adapt, recognize missed chances, and face them with humility is a mark of true sportsmanship and dedication to the long-term vision of the team.
As the NFL continues to evolve, stories like that of Elway, Allen, and Chubb will persist, serving as valuable lessons for future executives and players alike. The draft remains a potent narrative of potential, expectation, and the ever-present what-ifs that keep the world of sports irresistibly engaging.