Assembling the pieces of an NFL franchise’s success or failure is a complex and often scrutinized endeavor. For the Denver Broncos, a crucial chapter in their recent history is punctuated by the decisions made by John Elway, their former general manager. One pivotal moment that stands out is Elway's decision during the 2018 NFL draft.
A Draft Day Decision
In a draft teeming with potential franchise quarterbacks, Elway made the decision to pass on Josh Allen, a quarterback who has since flourished with the Buffalo Bills. Instead, with the fifth overall pick, he opted for Bradley Chubb, a pass rusher out of NC State. At the time, Elway's confidence in Case Keenum's abilities influenced his selection, believing Keenum was poised to be the answer at quarterback for the Broncos.
Years have passed, and hindsight offers a clearer perspective. Elway, reflecting on this moment, candidly shared, "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. And I loved him. But it just didn't work out. He was my type. That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh."
The Quarterback Conundrum
Elway’s tenure with the Broncos is a tale of early triumphs and later struggles. Returning to the franchise in 2011 as the director of player personnel, he was quickly promoted to executive vice president of football operations in 2012. His initial five seasons were marked by an impressive 64-26 record, culminating in a Super Bowl win in the 2015 season. However, Peyton Manning’s departure brought about an era of instability at the quarterback position.
Since Manning’s retirement, Denver has cycled through 13 different starting quarterbacks, a carousel that significantly contributed to their failure to make the playoffs post their 2015 Super Bowl victory. Elway's attempts to stabilize the position included drafting Paxton Lynch in 2016, a decision that did not pan out as hoped. Lynch started only four games before his eventual release in 2018, leaving the Broncos searching for answers.
Bradley Chubb's Journey
Bradley Chubb, the player chosen over Josh Allen, had his share of struggles in Denver. Health issues plagued Chubb's tenure with the Broncos, hampering his ability to consistently make an impact. These challenges eventually led to his trade to the Miami Dolphins, marking another turn in the ongoing saga of Denver's quest for stability and success.
Elway's Legacy
By the time Elway stepped away from his role following the 2020 season, his record in the final five seasons had dipped to 32-48, a stark contrast to the first half of his tenure. The quarterback position remained a revolving door, underscoring one of the biggest challenges Elway faced. His admission regarding Josh Allen highlights the critical nature of draft decisions and their long-term impact on a franchise.
John Elway's storied career with the Denver Broncos is a blend of remarkable achievements and missed opportunities. His early successes and subsequent challenges embody the volatility and unpredictability of the NFL. As the Broncos continue to seek their next great quarterback, the legacy of Elway’s choices serves as both a lesson and a reminder of the high stakes involved in building a team capable of sustained success.