The Denver Broncos enter the 2024 season with renewed hope at the quarterback position, placing their faith in Bo Nix. However, recent comments by Broncos legend John Elway highlight a significant missed opportunity that could have dramatically altered the franchise’s trajectory. In the 2018 NFL Draft, the Broncos held the fifth overall pick, a prime position to select a potential franchise quarterback. Instead, Elway, then the team’s general manager, opted for edge rusher Bradley Chubb.
The Chubb selection ultimately proved unsuccessful for Denver. The former fifth overall pick was traded to the Miami Dolphins and no longer contributes to the Broncos’ defensive efforts. The sting of that decision is amplified by the quarterback the Broncos bypassed: Josh Allen.
Elway recently reflected on his tenure as general manager, candidly admitting his regret over passing on Allen in a recent interview on Barstool Sports’ “Pardon My Take” podcast. He recounted a golf outing with Allen, humorously wondering how long it would take the Bills quarterback to realize he was the player Elway overlooked. The answer: two and a half holes. Elway confessed his admiration for Allen, stating, “He was my type. That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days, was not taking Josh.”
Elway stepped down as general manager in 2020. Despite his own illustrious career as a Hall of Fame quarterback, he struggled to secure a long-term solution at the position for the Broncos during his time in the front office.
The impact of drafting Allen is undeniable. He has blossomed into a top-tier NFL quarterback, leading the Buffalo Bills to consistent success. Allen’s statistics since entering the league underscore his exceptional talent: 22,703 passing yards, 167 touchdowns, 78 interceptions, and a 92.2 passer rating. During the same period, the Broncos have started a staggering 13 different quarterbacks, highlighting the instability and lack of a franchise leader at the position.
The Broncos are now pinning their hopes on Bo Nix and recently acquired Zach Wilson, hoping to finally find the stability at quarterback that has eluded them for years. While they look to the future, the specter of “what if?” looms large. Had Elway selected Allen, the Broncos’ recent history could have been dramatically different, potentially mirroring the success enjoyed by the Buffalo Bills. The decision to pass on Allen serves as a stark reminder of the high stakes and lasting impact of NFL Draft decisions.
