Assembling the pieces of an NFL franchise's success or failure is a complex and often scrutinized endeavor. In the case of John Elway's tenure as the general manager for the Denver Broncos, several pivotal decisions stand out, shaping the team's fortunes over the years.
The Elway Era Begins
John Elway, a legendary figure in Denver Broncos history, rejoined the franchise in 2011 as the director of player personnel. A year later, he was named executive vice president of football operations, embarking on a journey that would see both remarkable highs and notable lows.
Elway's initial years as general manager were marked by success, boasting a record of 64-26 in his first five seasons. Under his leadership, the Broncos secured a Super Bowl victory following the 2015 season. However, the team's fortunes took a downward turn in his final five seasons, with the record slipping to 32-48.
Quarterback Woes
A significant aspect of the Broncos' struggles post-2015 can be traced to instability at the quarterback position. Since Peyton Manning's retirement, Denver has cycled through 13 different starting quarterbacks, a revolving door that has severely hampered the team's consistency and playoff aspirations.
Elway's decisions in the NFL draft played a crucial role in this instability. In 2016, he drafted Paxton Lynch, a move that did not pan out as expected. Lynch started only four games before his eventual release in 2018, a significant misstep that left the Broncos floundering at the crucial quarterback position.
The 2018 Draft and Beyond
The 2018 NFL draft presented another pivotal moment for Elway's legacy. Faced with a crucial decision, Elway chose Bradley Chubb, a promising pass rusher from NC State, with the fifth overall pick. At the time, Elway had high hopes vested in quarterback Case Keenum, which influenced his choice to pass on selecting a quarterback.
However, this decision meant passing on Josh Allen, who has since flourished with the Buffalo Bills. Reflecting on this, Elway remarked, "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."
While Chubb showed early promise, his tenure with the Broncos was marred by health issues. Eventually, he was traded to the Miami Dolphins, adding another layer of complexity to Elway's draft legacy.
Reflecting on a Turbulent Tenure
Elway stepped away from his role at the end of the 2020 season, leaving behind a legacy marked by both triumphs and challenges. His early success with the Broncos set high expectations, but the latter part of his tenure was characterized by struggles, particularly at the quarterback position.
The decision to pass on Josh Allen in favor of Bradley Chubb is often highlighted as a significant moment in Elway's career. Allen's success with the Buffalo Bills stands in stark contrast to the Broncos' ongoing search for a franchise quarterback, underscoring the long-lasting impact of draft decisions.
As the Broncos continue to seek stability and success, the legacy of John Elway's tenure will remain a topic of discussion. His initial achievements and subsequent challenges embody the complexities of building and maintaining a successful NFL franchise. For the Broncos, the quest to recapture their former glory continues, shaped in part by the decisions made during the Elway era.