Assembling the blueprint for an NFL franchise's triumph or adversity involves deeply intertwined decisions, and one name central to the Denver Broncos' recent history is John Elway.
Draft Decisions and Outcomes
As the Denver Broncos' general manager, Elway faced numerous pivotal choices that shaped the future of the franchise. One such decision was during the 2018 NFL draft when Elway opted for pass rusher Bradley Chubb from NC State with the fifth overall pick, bypassing quarterback Josh Allen. At that moment, Elway's optimism was pinned on Case Keenum, another quarterback acquisition he hoped would stabilize the team's offensive woes.
Reflecting on the draft, Elway's hindsight emphasizes the weight of that 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. 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," Elway admitted.
The ramifications of that decision reverberate through the Broncos' performance and quarterback instability since then. Josh Allen, thriving with the Buffalo Bills, has emerged as one of the league's elite quarterbacks, while Denver continued to grapple with a carousel of quarterback changes. Chubb, though talented, struggled with health issues and was eventually traded to the Miami Dolphins.
An Era of Quarterbacks
The quarterback position has been a particularly tumultuous spot for the Broncos. Since the retirement of the legendary Peyton Manning following their Super Bowl-winning 2015 season, Denver has cycled through 13 different starting quarterbacks. This instability has been a significant factor contributing to the franchise's playoff drought.
Elway’s previous quarterback draft pick, Paxton Lynch in 2016, also highlights the difficulties faced during his tenure. Lynch started only four games before being released in 2018, another indication of the struggles Denver encountered in finding a Manning successor.
Leadership and Legacy
John Elway’s influence on the Broncos began when he rejoined the organization in 2011 as the director of player personnel. He was soon promoted to executive vice president of football operations in 2012. His impact was immediate, with the team's remarkable record of 64-26 in his first five seasons. However, the latter part of his tenure starkly contrasted, as the Broncos' record dipped to 32-48 in his final five seasons. These figures encapsulate the mixed legacy of Elway's managerial tenure.
Elway stepped away from his role following the 2020 season, marking the end of a significant chapter in Broncos history. His period of leadership saw moments of high promise but equally significant trials, particularly in steering the team post-Manning era.
The Broncos' journey over the last decade under Elway illustrates the fine margins and profound impact that key decisions can have on an NFL franchise. As Denver continues to seek stability and resurgence, the reflections on Elway's tenure offer critical insights into the art of building—and rebuilding—a team.