In a pivotal moment during the 2018 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos had the No. 5 overall pick and chose Bradley Chubb, a promising linebacker expected to bolster their defense. Meanwhile, Josh Allen, another highly touted prospect, was selected by the Buffalo Bills with the No. 8 overall pick. The decisions made during that draft have significantly shaped the trajectories of both franchises.
A Tale of Two Picks
Bradley Chubb's tenure with the Denver Broncos saw him appearing in 49 games, during which he recorded an impressive 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and even an interception. Chubb's performance earned him recognition in the form of a Pro Bowl selection, cementing his reputation as a formidable defensive force in the league. Yet, despite his notable contributions, Chubb was eventually traded to the Miami Dolphins, marking the end of his chapter with Denver.
On the flip side, Josh Allen's selection by the Buffalo Bills proved to be a game-changer for the franchise. Under Allen's leadership, the Bills clinched four consecutive AFC East titles since 2020, revitalizing a team that had faced struggles in previous years. Allen's impact on the field has been profound, guiding the Bills to numerous victories and establishing them as a consistent playoff contender.
Reflections of a Former GM
John Elway, the former General Manager of the Denver Broncos, reflected on the decision to pass on Josh Allen in favor of Bradley Chubb. "That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh ... And I loved him, right? … he was my type," Elway confessed. His words underscore the regret that comes with hindsight, especially considering Allen's success with the Bills.
Elway's reflection did not end there. He recounted a personal anecdote, "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." This candid admission highlights the enduring impact of that draft decision on Elway.
The Outcome for Both Teams
With Chubb now in Miami and Allen thriving in Buffalo, the outcomes are clear. Denver bolstered its defense with Chubb's presence for a time, while Buffalo found its franchise quarterback in Allen. The contrasting paths of these two players serve as a testament to the unpredictability and high stakes of the NFL Draft.
Chubb's journey from a top pick to being traded reflects the often tumultuous nature of an NFL player's career. Despite his trade, his achievements with the Broncos, including his Pro Bowl selection, will be remembered by Denver fans and the organization. On the other hand, Allen's ascension to stardom and his leadership in securing multiple division titles illustrate the transformative impact a single player can have on a franchise's fortunes.
As teams and their fans look back on the 2018 draft, the stories of Bradley Chubb and Josh Allen will remain intertwined, each representing the different paths that can emerge from the pivotal choices made on draft day. Elway's reflections offer a candid glimpse into the pressures and consequences faced by those making these critical decisions, and serve as a reminder of the lasting impact such choices can have on the future of NFL franchises.