In the 2018 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos made a significant decision by choosing Bradley Chubb with the No. 5 overall pick. Chubb, who had an illustrious college career, was brought in with great expectations to bolster the Broncos' defensive line. The decision, however, came with its own set of ramifications and reflections from Broncos management, particularly from former General Manager John Elway.
A Missed Opportunity
Josh Allen was another standout player in the 2018 draft class, selected by the Buffalo Bills with the No. 8 overall pick. Under Allen's leadership, the Bills have clinched four consecutive AFC East titles since 2020, a testament to his talent and the pivotal role he plays in the team's success.
Reflecting on the draft, John Elway acknowledged a significant oversight. "That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh," Elway admitted. "And I loved him, right? He was my type." This candid confession highlights the complexities and challenges GMs face during the draft process, where decisions can significantly impact a team's trajectory for years.
Bradley Chubb's Tenure in Denver
Meanwhile, Bradley Chubb did not disappoint during his time with the Denver Broncos. Over 49 games, Chubb recorded 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and even an interception. His performances on the field earned him Pro Bowl recognition, a clear indication of his skill and impact as a defensive player.
Despite his on-field successes, Chubb's journey with the Broncos came to an end when he was traded to the Miami Dolphins. The reasons behind the trade weren't explicitly stated, but transactions like these are often the result of broader strategic considerations involving player contracts, team needs, and future draft picks.
Lingering What-Ifs
Elway, known for his storied career and subsequent executive role, couldn't help but ponder the alternative scenario where he could have secured Josh Allen for the Broncos. He shared a light-hearted yet telling anecdote from a casual game of golf: "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 underscores the lasting impression certain draft decisions leave and how they are often revisited in lighter social interactions.
A Tale of Two Careers
The careers of Bradley Chubb and Josh Allen, while significantly different in their narratives, reflect the unpredictable nature of the NFL and its draft process. Chubb's defensive prowess and Allen's leadership as a quarterback illustrate the diverse paths NFL careers can take depending on team needs, opportunities, and individual performances.
As the Buffalo Bills continue to thrive under Josh Allen's leadership, and Bradley Chubb writes his next chapter with the Miami Dolphins, the 2018 NFL Draft serves as a reminder of the pivotal decisions that shape teams' fortunes. The Broncos' choice of Chubb over Allen is just one of many decisions that continue to be evaluated and re-examined, exemplifying the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of professional football.