The Broncos' 2018 Draft Decision: A Tale of What Could Have Been
In the world of professional football, the stakes are high, and decisions made during the NFL Draft can shape the future of franchises. Such was the case in 2018 when the Denver Broncos held the No. 5 overall pick. Opting for North Carolina State's standout linebacker Bradley Chubb, the Broncos aimed to bolster their defense. Chubb, a player with immense potential, seemed to be a solid choice to anchor Denver's defense for years to come.
Bradley Chubb's tenure in Denver was marked by commendable performances. Over the course of 49 games, Chubb recorded 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and even snagged an interception. His impact on the field was significant enough to earn him Pro Bowl recognition, a testament to his prowess and consistency. Yet, despite these achievements, Chubb's journey with the Broncos came to an end when he was traded to the Miami Dolphins, leaving many to ponder the what-ifs had the Broncos made a different choice with their coveted draft pick.
The Josh Allen What-If
Enter Josh Allen, the quarterback from Wyoming who went to the Buffalo Bills with the No. 8 overall pick in the same draft. Allen's selection by the Bills has since proven to be a franchise-altering decision. Under Allen's leadership, the Bills have reached new heights, clinching four consecutive AFC East titles since 2020. His prowess as a quarterback has not only revitalized the Bills but has also made him one of the most feared signal-callers in the league.
The sharp contrast between the paths of Chubb and Allen is something former Broncos General Manager John Elway reflected on with a tinge of regret. "That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh ... And I loved him, right? … he was my type," Elway candidly admitted. The acknowledgment of this missed opportunity speaks volumes about the importance and pressure of the decisions made on draft day. Elway's wistful reflection is further humanized by a candid moment he shared: "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 Impact of Decisions
The 2018 draft decisions had lasting repercussions for both franchises. The Denver Broncos, with Chubb, enriched their defense but continued to struggle in finding their franchise quarterback. The ripple effect of this decision has been felt in the team's performance and their continued search for stability under center.
The Bills, conversely, have flourished with Allen at the helm. His ability to lead the team and execute on critical plays has been a game-changer. The franchise's resurgence is a direct result of Allen's influence, showcasing the immense impact a stellar quarterback can have. For Buffalo, the 2018 NFL Draft has become a pivotal moment in their ascendancy in the AFC East.
Reflections and Legacies
As we look back at the 2018 draft, the tale of Chubb and Allen serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability and pressures of draft decisions. For Chubb, his journey continues with the Miami Dolphins, where he has the opportunity to carve out a new chapter in his career. The Broncos, meanwhile, are left to ruminate on what could have been had they chosen differently.
John Elway's reflective quotes encapsulate the essence of the draft's gamble: the challenge of balancing potential with immediate needs, and the enduring consequences of those choices. "That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days," his words echo, underlining the immense weight carried by those tasked with shaping a team's future.
Ultimately, the trajectories of Bradley Chubb and Josh Allen underscore the highs and lows of NFL drafting. It is a process laden with speculation, hope, and sometimes, regret. Each pick carries with it the promise of success and the potential for missed opportunities, a reality that both the Broncos and the Bills know all too well.