The Denver Broncos made a significant decision in the 2018 NFL Draft when they held the No. 5 overall pick.
With their selection, the Broncos chose Bradley Chubb, an outside linebacker from NC State. Chubb's arrival was met with much anticipation, and over the course of his tenure with Denver, he played in 49 games and recorded 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and even an interception. His performance on the field earned him Pro Bowl recognition, cementing his status as a valuable player in the Broncos’ lineup.
Despite Chubb’s accomplishments, there exists a lingering “what if?” in the minds of Broncos fans and executives alike. One notable figure who has been vocal about this is John Elway, the former General Manager of the Denver Broncos. Reflecting on the 2018 Draft, Elway admitted, "That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh ... And I loved him, right? … he was my type.”
Elway’s regret stems from passing on quarterback Josh Allen, who was picked at No. 8 by the Buffalo Bills. Allen’s trajectory since joining the Bills has been nothing short of impressive. Under his leadership, the Bills have clinched four consecutive AFC East titles since 2020, transforming the team into a formidable force in the NFL. Allen’s presence on and off the field has been a significant factor in the Bills’ resurgence, making him one of the top quarterbacks in the league today.
Ironically, Elway once had a personal encounter with Allen that brought this decision to the forefront of his mind. "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 sentiment that even in the competitive world of professional sports, decisions and their repercussions often linger long after they are made.
Eventually, the Broncos decided to trade Bradley Chubb to the Miami Dolphins, marking the end of his tenure with Denver. This move might have been seen as an acknowledgment of the missed opportunity with Allen, but more likely it was a strategic decision as the franchise looked ahead to future seasons.
For the Broncos and their fans, the 2018 NFL Draft remains a significant moment of reflection. Bradley Chubb’s contribution to the team was substantial and commendable, but the haunting notion of what could have been with Josh Allen continues to spark discussions. Only time will tell how these decisions shape the legacy of the Denver Broncos and the careers of the players involved.