The anatomy of an NFL franchise’s success or failure is an intricate puzzle, with the Denver Broncos serving as a compelling case study. Known for his storied career both on and off the field, John Elway's tenure as the general manager of the Broncos has been filled with notable decisions, triumphs, and setbacks.
The Draft Decisions
One of the most scrutinized decisions of Elway's time as general manager occurred during the 2018 NFL Draft. Opting for Bradley Chubb, a pass rusher from NC State, with the fifth overall pick, Elway passed on the opportunity to draft quarterback Josh Allen. At the time, Elway had placed his hopes in Case Keenum, who had just joined Denver following a successful stint with the Minnesota Vikings.
Looking back, Elway himself admitted, "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."
Indeed, Josh Allen has flourished with the Buffalo Bills, establishing himself as one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the league. Meanwhile, Bradley Chubb struggled with health issues during his tenure in Denver and was eventually traded to the Miami Dolphins, leaving a question mark over the decision-making process of the Broncos' front office during those critical draft years.
The QB Carousel
Since the retirement of Peyton Manning following the Broncos’ victory in Super Bowl 50, Denver has experienced a revolving door at the quarterback position. In a mere seven seasons, the team has cycled through 13 different starting quarterbacks. This instability has been a significant factor in the Broncos' prolonged absence from the playoffs since their 2015 season triumph.
One of Elway's earlier draft decisions was selecting Paxton Lynch in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft. Lynch's tenure with the franchise was short-lived; he started only four games before being released in 2018. The instability has haunted a franchise searching for stability and competence at the most critical position in football.
Highs and Lows of Elway’s Tenure
Elway returned to the Broncos in 2011 as the director of player personnel and was subsequently named executive vice president of football operations in 2012. His first five seasons were marked by remarkable success, boasting a record of 64-26 that included two Super Bowl appearances and one title. However, as the years progressed, the high-level performance waned, resulting in a record of 32-48 over his final five seasons as general manager.
Elway ultimately stepped away from his role following the 2020 season, a move that signified the end of an era. His tenure was a blend of undeniable triumphs and notable missteps, all of which have continued to shape the trajectory of the franchise even after his departure.
As the Broncos continue to navigate through the complexities of rebuilding and achieving consistent success, Elway's legacy remains a significant talking point. The decisions he made, particularly those surrounding the quarterback position, will long be debated by analysts and fans alike.
The intricate dance of assembling a winning NFL team often hinges on the success or failure of snapping up key talents in the draft, solidifying critical positions, and maintaining consistency. For the Denver Broncos, the echoes of John Elway’s era resonate profoundly within the fabric of the organization, serving as both a blueprint and a cautionary tale for future endeavors.