In 2018, the Denver Broncos had the No. 5 overall pick in the NFL Draft, a pivotal moment that could shape the franchise’s future. The team chose Bradley Chubb, a defensive standout who quickly established himself as a cornerstone of their defense.
Chubb’s Time in Denver
Over his tenure with the Broncos, Bradley Chubb played in 49 games, recording 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and even an interception. His impressive performances earned him Pro Bowl recognition, cementing his status as one of the top defensive players in the league. Despite his individual success, the Broncos as a team struggled to find consistent success, prompting significant organizational changes.
Chubb’s Trade to the Dolphins
Ultimately, Bradley Chubb's journey with the Denver Broncos came to an end when he was traded to the Miami Dolphins. The trade marked the end of an era for the Broncos' defense and the beginning of a new chapter for Chubb.
The One That Got Away
While Chubb's selection and subsequent performance were commendable, former Broncos GM John Elway reflected on what could have been. "That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh ... And I loved him, right? … he was my type," Elway admitted. This candid confession sheds light on a decision that continues to reverberate throughout the Broncos' community.
Josh Allen’s Meteoric Rise
Josh Allen, the quarterback who Elway passed on, was selected by the Buffalo Bills with the No. 8 overall pick. Since then, Allen has transformed into one of the NFL's elite quarterbacks. Under his leadership, the Bills have clinched four consecutive AFC East titles since 2020. His dynamic playmaking ability and leadership have brought the Bills back to national prominence and have made him a central figure in their resurgence.
Elway’s reflections provide, perhaps, a deeper understanding of his personal connection to Allen. "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 humorously recounted. This anecdote offers a glimpse into the lingering 'what ifs' that permeate the minds of decision-makers in the high-stakes world of the NFL.
The Ripple Effects
The 2018 NFL Draft's ripple effects are profound. Chubb's impact on the Broncos' defense and his subsequent trade to the Dolphins highlight the ever-shifting nature of NFL careers. Simultaneously, Josh Allen's ascent to stardom with the Bills underscores the monumental impact a franchise quarterback can have on a team's fortunes.
In professional sports, draft decisions are often scrutinized for years, and the 2018 choices made by the Broncos and Bills continue to be a subject of much discussion. The trajectory of both Bradley Chubb and Josh Allen paints a vivid picture of the unpredictable and high-stakes nature of the NFL Draft.
As the Broncos and their fans look back on that fateful draft, the balance between what was gained and what might have been continues to be a poignant reminder of the importance and difficulty of decisions in NFL front offices.