In 2018, the Denver Broncos faced a pivotal moment in their franchise history with the No. 5 overall pick in the NFL Draft. They chose Bradley Chubb, a choice that would shape the team's defensive fortunes in the years to come.
Fast forward to today, and Bradley Chubb's impact on the Broncos is well documented. Over the course of 49 games, Chubb delivered 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and even an interception, solidifying his reputation as a formidable presence on the field. His contributions earned him recognition in the Pro Bowl, highlighting his status as one of the league's elite defensive players.
However, the story of the 2018 NFL Draft is as much about what could have been as it is about Chubb's achievements. The Buffalo Bills, selecting three spots later at No. 8, picked quarterback Josh Allen. Under Allen's leadership, the Bills have clinched four consecutive AFC East titles since 2020, a testament to his transformative impact on the team.
Reflecting on the 2018 draft, former Denver Broncos GM John Elway candidly acknowledged the challenge of hindsight. "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. The regret is palpable, especially given Allen's success with the Bills.
Elway's reflection is tinged with moments of personal interaction with Allen, illustrating a what-might-have-been scenario. "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 offers a revealing glimpse into the personal stakes and human element behind these high-pressure decisions.
Chubb's journey with the Broncos eventually led him to a new chapter with the Miami Dolphins, marking the end of a significant era for Denver. As both Chubb and Allen continue to shape their respective careers, the intertwined fates of these two players and the decisions made in that 2018 draft will be remembered as a defining moment in NFL history.