In 2018, the Denver Broncos found themselves with the No. 5 overall pick in the NFL Draft, a coveted position to strengthen their roster. The team decided to choose Bradley Chubb, a promising defensive end with significant potential. Meanwhile, just three spots later, the Buffalo Bills seized their opportunity to draft quarterback Josh Allen with the No. 8 overall pick. Both players have since made an indelible mark on the NFL, albeit in different ways and with varied implications for their respective franchises.
Broncos’ Bet on Chubb
Bradley Chubb's tenure with the Denver Broncos was marked by a combination of productivity and standout performances. Over the course of 49 games, Chubb accumulated 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and even recorded an interception. His impact on the field earned him recognition, including a Pro Bowl appearance, validating the Broncos' faith in his abilities. However, the story of their 2018 draft choice also involves a poignant reflection within the organization.
John Elway, the Broncos' general manager at the time, later admitted to a significant oversight. "That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh ... And I loved him, right? … he was my type," Elway remarked. This candid admission underscores the high stakes and difficult decisions inherent in the draft process. The Broncos may have landed a defensive cornerstone in Chubb, but the what-ifs surrounding Allen's dynamic career linger in the minds of many.
Allen's Rise with the Bills
Josh Allen's selection by the Buffalo Bills has proved transformative for the franchise. Since taking the helm, Allen has led the Bills to four consecutive AFC East titles starting in 2020, a period marked by a resurgence of Buffalo's prominence in the NFL. Allen's leadership and on-field excellence have been pivotal in the team's successes, showcasing the potential impact of a well-chosen franchise quarterback.
Elway humorously recalled a golf game that encapsulated his retrospective thoughts on the 2018 Draft. "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. This anecdote reflects the stark reality of draft day decisions and their long-term ramifications.
A Twist in Chubb's Journey
Despite Chubb's production and accolades with the Broncos, his journey with Denver eventually came to an end as he was traded to the Miami Dolphins. The trade marked the close of a significant chapter for Chubb and the Broncos, allowing both parties a fresh start. Miami, in acquiring Chubb, hopes to leverage his defensive prowess to bolster their defensive lineup.
The narrative of the 2018 draft continues to evolve with each passing season. For the Broncos, it is a tale of reflective wisdom mingled with the tangible contributions of Bradley Chubb. For the Bills, it's a saga of a franchise rejuvenated under the arm and leadership of Josh Allen. Together, these stories exemplify the intricate and often unpredictable nature of NFL draft decisions, where every pick holds the potential to shape the future of teams and careers in the league.