Denver Broncos 2018 Draft Decisions: A Retrospective
In the 2018 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos held the No. 5 overall pick, a golden opportunity to shape the future trajectory of their franchise. With numerous potential game-changers on the board, the Broncos chose Bradley Chubb, a standout defensive end from North Carolina State. Fast forward, and the ramifications of that decision are still being felt, not just in Denver but across the league.
Bradley Chubb made an immediate impact with the Broncos, playing in 49 games and earning Pro Bowl recognition. His contributions on the field included 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and even an interception, cementing his reputation as a defensive cornerstone during his tenure in Denver. Yet, despite his impressive performance, Chubb's journey with the Broncos came to an end when he was traded to the Miami Dolphins.
While Bradley Chubb's selection was largely seen as positive for the Broncos, there was another player in the 2018 draft who has since defined a new era for his team: Josh Allen. Selected by the Buffalo Bills with the No. 8 overall pick, Allen has risen to prominence as one of the league's elite quarterbacks. Since his arrival, the Bills have clinched four consecutive AFC East titles starting from 2020, with Allen's leadership playing a pivotal role in their success.
Reflecting on the draft, former Broncos GM John Elway candidly admitted to missing out on Josh Allen. "That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh," Elway revealed. "And I loved him, right? … he was my type." This quote underscores the weight of GM decisions and the long-term impact they can have on a franchise.
Elway's reflections don't end there. He shared a personal anecdote that highlights how the past decisions continue to weave into the present. "Last year I played golf with him," Elway recounted, "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 light-hearted remark offers a glimpse into the "what ifs" and personal reflections that come with the high-stakes world of professional sports management.
While hindsight offers clarity, the reality remains that the 2018 NFL Draft was a significant moment for multiple franchises. The Broncos' selection of Bradley Chubb provided immediate defensive strength, but the selection of Allen by the Bills has arguably reshaped the balance of power in the AFC East.