The journey of an NFL franchise towards either success or failure is often as complex as it is scrutinized. At the heart of the Denver Broncos' recent turbulent seasons lies a series of decisions that have shaped the course of the franchise. A focal point in these decisions is John Elway, the iconic former quarterback who transitioned into a role as a key executive for the team he once led on the field.
The Draft Decision that Could Have Changed It All
One of the most consequential decisions during Elway’s tenure as general manager was in the 2018 NFL draft. With the fifth overall pick, Elway opted for Bradley Chubb, a promising pass rusher from NC State, over quarterback Josh Allen. The decision was informed by his belief in Case Keenum, who had shown potential as a reliable quarterback. At the time, Keenum was viewed as a short-term solution, providing enough reassurance for Elway to bolster the defense instead.
"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. "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 Ripple Effect of Draft Choices
Elway's regret is underscored by the subsequent performances of the chosen players. Bradley Chubb, despite being a strong player, struggled with health issues during his time in Denver and was eventually traded to the Miami Dolphins. On the other hand, Josh Allen has flourished with the Buffalo Bills, quickly developing into one of the league's elite quarterbacks. Allen's success has added a glaring lens to Elway's decision, one that might haunt the Broncos for years to come.
This wasn’t Elway's first gamble at the quarterback position. In 2016, he placed his bets on Paxton Lynch, selecting him in hopes of securing a franchise quarterback. However, Lynch started only four games before being released in 2018, marking yet another setback at the most critical position.
The Unstable Quarterback Carousel
Since Peyton Manning's retirement following the 2015 season, Denver has endured a rotating door of quarterbacks, cycling through an astonishing 13 different starters. This instability at the quarterback position has been a significant reason for the Broncos failing to make the playoffs since their Super Bowl win in the 2015 season. The search for a consistent and productive quarterback has been arduous and wearisome for the franchise and its fan base.
Elway’s journey with the Broncos' front office began on a high note. Rejoining the team in 2011 as the director of player personnel, and then becoming the executive vice president of football operations in 2012, Elway reaped early success. His record as general manager stood at an impressive 64-26 in his first five seasons. However, the tide turned in his final five seasons, culminating in a disappointing 32-48 record.
The Legacy of a Legendary Figure
Elway stepped away from his role following the 2020 season, leaving behind a mixed legacy defined by both triumphs and missteps. Despite the challenges, his earlier achievements and contributions to the team's Super Bowl 50 victory cannot be overlooked. However, the “what ifs” surrounding the 2018 draft and the subsequent years highlight how a few pivotal decisions can shape the trajectory of a franchise.
In the larger narrative of the NFL, the Broncos’ recent history serves as a reminder of the intricate and often unpredictable nature of the league. Assembling a successful team requires not just insight but sometimes, a bit of fortune, and even the most esteemed figures can find themselves on the wrong side of what-ifs. For John Elway and the Broncos, the decision to pass on Josh Allen will remain a significant juncture in their storied history.