In the 2018 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos held the highly coveted No. 5 overall pick. With this valuable selection, they opted for Bradley Chubb, a promising defensive end. His tenure with the Broncos, though solid, contrasted starkly with the fortunes of another quarterback picked just three slots later by the Buffalo Bills. That quarterback was Josh Allen.
Denver Broncos and Bradley Chubb
Bradley Chubb's time with the Denver Broncos showcased his formidable skills. Playing in 49 games, Chubb amassed 144 tackles, 26 sacks, and even snagged an interception. His performances earned him Pro Bowl recognition, highlighting his impact on the field. Despite his accomplishments, Chubb's journey with the Broncos came to an end when he was traded to the Miami Dolphins. The trade marked a new chapter for the player who had become a staple in Denver's defensive lineup.
Josh Allen: Buffalo's Leader
Meanwhile, the Buffalo Bills' decision to select Josh Allen with the No. 8 overall pick in 2018 proved transformative. Under Allen's leadership, the Bills have clinched four consecutive AFC East titles since 2020. Allen has demonstrated impressive growth and consistency, solidifying his status as a franchise quarterback and elevating the Bills to perennial contenders.
Regrets and Reflections
Reflecting on that pivotal draft, former Broncos General Manager John Elway candidly admitted his misstep. "That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh," Elway confessed. He further elaborated on his admiration for Allen, stating, "And I loved him, right? … he was my type."
Elway's reflection on the 2018 draft extends beyond boardroom regrets. He shared an anecdote from a more casual setting, indicating that his choice had not gone unnoticed by 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 recounted. The story exemplifies the lingering impact of draft day decisions.
In hindsight, the Broncos' choice of Chubb at No. 5 and the Bills' selection of Allen at No. 8 represent divergent paths for the two franchises. Chubb provided immediate defensive prowess, but the need for a franchise quarterback remains a constant quest in Denver. Allen's success with the Bills underscores what could have been for the Broncos, adding a layer of "what if" to every reflection on the 2018 draft.
As both players continue their careers with new chapters — Chubb in Miami and Allen cementing his legacy in Buffalo — the ripple effects of that draft decision will be part of NFL lore, a reminder of the perennial quest for the perfect pick that defines each draft season.