Assembling the pieces of an NFL franchise’s success or failure is a complex and often scrutinized endeavor. For the Denver Broncos and their former general manager John Elway, the 2018 NFL Draft remains a particularly poignant chapter, marked by the decision to pass on quarterback Josh Allen.
Elway's Draft Decisions
Heading into the 2018 NFL Draft, John Elway had several directions he could take. As the general manager for the Broncos, Elway opted to use the fifth overall pick on Bradley Chubb, a pass rusher from NC State. At the time, Elway's hopes were pinned on quarterback Case Keenum, whom the team had brought in with high expectations. Previously, in 2016, Elway had also selected quarterback Paxton Lynch, a decision that ultimately did not yield the desired results, as Lynch started only four games before his release in 2018.
Chubb, expected to bolster the Broncos' defensive line, struggled with health issues throughout his tenure in Denver. His journey with the Broncos concluded with a trade to the Miami Dolphins. In stark contrast, Josh Allen, whom Elway passed over, has flourished with the Buffalo Bills, quickly becoming one of the premier quarterbacks in the league.
Reflection and Regret
In a moment of candid reflection, Elway commented on his decision-making process during a 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. And I loved him. But it just didn't work out. He was my type. That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh." The admission underscores the weight and complexity of draft decisions and how they can shape a franchise's trajectory.
The Quarterback Carousel
Since the retirement of Peyton Manning following the Broncos' Super Bowl triumph in the 2015 season, Denver has cycled through 13 different starting quarterbacks. The lack of stability at the most critical position in football has been a significant factor in the Broncos' failure to make the playoffs since their championship win.
Elway's Tenure
John Elway rejoined the Broncos' front office in 2011 as the director of player personnel and was promoted to executive vice president of football operations in 2012. Under his leadership, the team achieved significant success early on, boasting a record of 64-26 in his first five seasons. However, the latter half of his tenure told a different story, with the team posting a 32-48 record over his final five seasons. Despite the ups and downs, Elway's early successes, including a Super Bowl victory, left an indelible mark on the franchise.
Elway's departure from his role following the 2020 season marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy replete with both triumphs and tribulations. His tenure was a mix of high-stakes decisions, some of which would be hailed as genius, while others would be scrutinized for years to come.
Ultimately, the saga of John Elway and the Denver Broncos serves as a reminder of the intricate and often unpredictable nature of building an NFL team. In the unforgiving world of professional football, hindsight offers clarity that eludes even the most seasoned decision-makers in the moment.