The 2018 Draft and Its Aftermath
In 2018, the Denver Broncos found themselves with the No. 5 overall pick in the NFL Draft. With a plethora of talent available, the Broncos decided to use their high-value pick on Bradley Chubb. The young defensive end from NC State was highly touted for his collegiate performance and appeared to be a promising cornerstone for Denver’s defense.
Chubb's tenure with the Broncos demonstrated just why he was so highly regarded coming out of college. Over his time in Denver, Chubb played in 49 games, recording an impressive stat line that included 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and an interception. His standout performances earned him Pro Bowl recognition, solidifying his reputation as one of the elite defensive players in the league.
Nevertheless, the 2018 draft will also be remembered for what might have been. The Denver Broncos passed on quarterback Josh Allen, who was taken with the No. 8 overall pick by the Buffalo Bills. Allen has since become one of the NFL’s premier quarterbacks, leading the Bills to four consecutive AFC East titles since 2020.
Elway’s Oversight
John Elway, the Broncos’ general manager at the time, has openly reflected on this decision with a mix of candor and 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 admitted. The acknowledgement of this oversight highlights the often unpredictable nature of the NFL Draft, where even seasoned executives can miss out on future stars.
Elway's reflection extends beyond mere professional introspection. "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. The anecdote underscores the personal dimension that links these draft day decisions to the lives and careers of the players and the executives behind them.
Bradley Chubb’s Next Chapter
While the Broncos might have missed out on Josh Allen, Bradley Chubb proved to be a substantial asset for the team during his time in Denver, living up to the expectations that came with his draft status. However, Chubb's journey with the Broncos eventually came to an end as he was traded to the Miami Dolphins. The trade marked the closing of one chapter in Chubb’s career and the beginning of another, as he aims to bring his formidable defensive prowess to Miami.
Though Chubb’s departure might have left a void, the Broncos can still look back on his contributions with pride. His time in Denver was characterized by relentless effort and standout performances that won him fans and respect throughout the league.
Reflections on What Could Have Been
For many Denver fans and NFL enthusiasts, the 2018 draft will forever be a compelling "what if" scenario. The Broncos’ decision to pass on Josh Allen remains a point of reflection and debate among analysts and fans alike. Allen’s meteoric rise with the Bills has been nothing short of spectacular, highlighting the challenging nature of draft selections. With numerous factors to consider, even the most informed choices can lead to mixed results.
Yet, it is essential to recognize the context and constraints that guide these pivotal decisions. Bradley Chubb’s selection, based on his collegiate performance and potential, was a strategic decision aimed at fortifying the Broncos' defense. While hindsight may cast a different light on those choices, Chubb's contributions to the Broncos demonstrate that the 2018 draft was not without merit for Denver. The current landscape of both teams involved illustrates the long-lasting ripples of draft day decisions, shaping the narratives of franchises and their key players.
As Bradley Chubb embarks on his new journey with the Miami Dolphins, and as Josh Allen continues to lead the Buffalo Bills, their paths remain intertwined with the enduring story of the 2018 NFL Draft. Both players, in their own right, have proven to be valuable assets to their respective franchises, reinforcing the unpredictable and thrilling nature of the NFL. The Broncos and their fans will undoubtedly continue to watch closely, reflecting on what was, and what might have been.