Before Josh Allen became an MVP-caliber quarterback for the Buffalo Bills, he was a controversial prospect during the 2018 NFL Draft. Fast forward eight years, the landscape of that draft class, which included five quarterbacks selected in the first round, still prominently features Allen, the seventh overall pick, alongside Lamar Jackson, who was picked 32nd by the Ravens.
At the time, Allen was the fourth quarterback chosen, trailing Baker Mayfield (first overall to the Browns) and Sam Darnold (third overall to the Jets), with only Josh Rosen (10th overall to the Cardinals) being picked after him. The Bills’ decision to trade up from the 12th to the 7th pick to select Allen proved fortuitous, especially as Rosen struggled significantly during his time in Arizona, leading to the Cardinals taking Kyler Murray first overall in 2019.
The events leading up to Buffalo’s acquisition of Allen reflected a mix of luck and strategic decision-making. The Browns’ selection of Mayfield at No. 1 eliminated their need for another quarterback, while the Colts, unaware of Andrew Luck’s impending retirement, opted for Pro Bowl guard Quenton Nelson at No. 6, bypassing a chance to select Allen.
The Broncos, holding the fifth pick, were also a significant factor in this narrative. They were reportedly interested in Allen but ultimately chose to draft edge rusher Bradley Chubb instead. This decision not only impacted their roster in the short term but also had long-term implications for their pursuit of a franchise quarterback.
During the lead-up to the draft, Broncos’ General Manager John Elway expressed admiration for Allen’s physicality and strong arm, characteristics that echoed his own playing style. However, there was considerable division within the organization, particularly from head coach Vance Joseph, who preferred a defensive prospect over an offensive one, ultimately leading to Chubb’s selection.
In hindsight, while Chubb became a two-time Pro Bowler, the missed opportunity to draft Allen has haunted the Broncos, particularly as they have faced challenges in finding a consistent quarterback since Peyton Manning’s retirement. The Broncos experienced a period of instability at the quarterback position, with Paxton Lynch and Case Keenum failing to meet expectations, leading them to more expensive but ultimately unsuccessful acquisitions, such as Russell Wilson.
Today, the narrative has shifted as the Broncos prepare to face the Bills in the playoffs. Excitement surrounds their recent investment in quarterback Bo Nix, who has shown potential in leading the team to success, including back-to-back playoff appearances. With the Broncos currently the strong AFC West champions, there’s a renewed sense of hope.
Although the memories of Allen’s impact with the Bills may linger, the Broncos are focused on their own future and look to prove themselves in the postseason, finding motivation in their recent successes rather than dwelling on past decisions. The contrast in paths—Allen’s ascent with the Bills and the Broncos’ quest for stability—highlights the unpredictable nature of the NFL and the potential for redemption.