Denver Broncos Reflect on 2018 Draft Choices
The 2018 NFL Draft was a pivotal moment for several franchises, none more so than the Denver Broncos and the Buffalo Bills. At the heart of this draft were two individuals who would go on to shape the futures of their respective teams: Bradley Chubb, selected by the Broncos with the No. 5 pick, and Josh Allen, taken by the Bills with the No. 8 pick.
Bradley Chubb, a standout linebacker, was the choice for the Broncos in that crucial No. 5 spot. Over the course of his career with Denver, Chubb played in 49 games, recording an impressive 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and even snagging an interception. His performance earned him Pro Bowl recognition, affirming the initial high hopes the Broncos had for him. Eventually, however, Chubb's journey with the Broncos came to an end when he was traded to the Miami Dolphins.
As for Josh Allen, his trajectory with the Buffalo Bills has been nothing short of transformative. Selected as the No. 8 pick, Allen quickly became the cornerstone of the franchise. Under his leadership, the Bills clinched four consecutive AFC East titles starting in 2020, a testament to his impact on the team and the league.
It’s worth noting that John Elway, the former general manager of the Denver Broncos, has openly reflected on his decision during the 2018 draft. "That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh," Elway admitted candidly. "And I loved him, right?… he was my type."
This admission highlights the perennial challenge facing GMs during the draft – balancing immediate team needs with long-term potential. Elway’s reflections add a poignant layer to the story, revealing the weight of the decisions made during those crucial draft days.
A moment of levity also underscores the lingering thoughts Elway has had about his choice. "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 not only humanizes the former GM but also speaks to the professional camaraderie and respect among players and team executives.
The Denver Broncos’ decision to select Bradley Chubb and pass on Josh Allen will continue to be a topic of discussion among fans and analysts alike. While the decision may not have panned out exactly as hoped for the Broncos, Chubb’s contributions to the team were significant and impactful during his tenure.
Meanwhile, the Buffalo Bills will likely continue to reap the benefits of their choice for many seasons to come. Allen’s performance has cemented his place as one of the premier quarterbacks in the league, and his leadership has propelled the Bills into a period of sustained success.
The story of the 2018 NFL Draft serves as a reminder of the complexities and uncertainties inherent in the world of professional sports. Each decision, whether seen as a triumph or a regret, contributes to the tapestry of the league’s history, influencing the fate of teams and the careers of players alike.
As the Broncos and Bills move forward, the legacy of that fateful draft night will continue to be analyzed and debated, serving as a case study in the high-stakes art of team-building and talent assessment in the NFL.