Denver Broncos might have Missed Out on their Best and Only Chance by Not Drafting Josh Allen
The Denver Broncos, a team with a storied history in the NFL, have struggled to find a long-term quarterback since the days of Peyton Manning. Among the quarterbacks they could have chosen to lead their franchise was Josh Allen, who has since become one of the league’s elite players with the Buffalo Bills. The Broncos’ decision to pass on Allen in the 2018 NFL Draft remains one of the most discussed “what-ifs” in recent football history.
Broncos Chose Bradley Chubb Over Josh Allen in 2018 NFL Draft
In the 2018 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos held the fifth overall pick following a disappointing 5-11 season. With a glaring need for a quarterback, the team had the opportunity to draft Josh Allen, who was highly touted for his arm strength and athleticism. However, the Broncos opted to select defensive end Bradley Chubb instead. Two picks later, Allen was drafted by the Buffalo Bills.
While the decision to draft Chubb was not without merit, it left the Broncos continuing their search for a franchise quarterback. Chubb delivered an impressive rookie season, recording 60 combined tackles, 12 sacks, and two forced fumbles. He earned a spot on the Pro Football Writers of America All-Rookie Team. Chubb remained a productive player for the Broncos for five seasons before being traded to the Miami Dolphins.
Despite Chubb’s contributions, the Broncos’ quarterback situation remained unresolved, leading to years of instability at the game’s most crucial position.
The Broncos’ Decade-Long Quarterback Struggles
Since the retirement of Peyton Manning after the 2015 season, the Broncos have endured a revolving door of quarterbacks. Over the last decade, the team has started 13 different quarterbacks, struggling to find consistency or long-term leadership. From Trevor Siemian and Case Keenum to Drew Lock and Teddy Bridgewater, no player managed to establish himself as the answer under center.
Meanwhile, Josh Allen blossomed with the Buffalo Bills. Developing under the guidance of head coach Sean McDermott and offensive coordinator Brian Daboll, Allen steadily improved each season. By 2024, he had led the Bills to multiple playoff appearances and solidified himself as one of the league’s elite quarterbacks.
The Broncos’ quarterback search culminated in the drafting of Bo Nix, who has brought renewed hope to the franchise. Nix ended Denver’s playoff drought in his rookie season, but the shadow of what could have been with Allen remains.
John Elway’s Admission of a Drafting Mistake
Former Broncos general manager and Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway has openly acknowledged the decision to pass on Josh Allen as one of his biggest regrets. In an interview on the “Pardon My Take” podcast in July 2024, Elway candidly admitted, “That was probably my biggest mistake of my GM days—not taking Josh.”
Elway’s reflection underscores the lasting impact of that 2018 decision. While Chubb provided value during his time in Denver, the Broncos’ inability to secure a franchise quarterback left them in a cycle of mediocrity. By contrast, Allen has propelled the Bills to championship contention, further emphasizing the significance of Denver’s missed opportunity.
Conclusion
The Denver Broncos’ decision to draft Bradley Chubb over Josh Allen in 2018 remains a pivotal moment in the team’s recent history. While Chubb made meaningful contributions during his tenure, the Broncos continued to struggle in their search for a franchise quarterback. The drafting of Bo Nix has provided hope, but the success of Josh Allen with the Buffalo Bills serves as a constant reminder of what could have been.
As Allen prepares to lead the Bills into the AFC Championship against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Broncos are left reflecting on a choice that shaped the trajectory of their franchise. The contrast between Allen’s rise and Denver’s struggles highlights the critical importance of finding the right quarterback to lead a team into the future.
