Assembling the pieces of an NFL franchise's success or failure is a complex and often scrutinized endeavor. For the Denver Broncos, the decisions made during John Elway's tenure as general manager have been both lauded and questioned, especially when it comes to the quarterback position.
Elway's Tenure and the Quarterback Conundrum
John Elway rejoined the Broncos in 2011 as the director of player personnel and was named executive vice president of football operations in 2012. His impact was immediate, compiling a stellar 64-26 record in his first five seasons. However, the subsequent five seasons were less impressive, with a 32-48 record, highlighting the challenges and missed opportunities under his leadership.
One of the most scrutinized decisions came in the 2018 NFL draft. Faced with the critical need for a franchise quarterback, Elway opted to pass on the promising Josh Allen, selecting instead Bradley Chubb, a pass rusher from NC State, with the fifth overall pick. At the time, confidence was vested in Case Keenum, believed to be the answer to the Broncos' quarterback issues.
Reflecting on this decision, Elway admitted, "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."
The Josh Allen What-If
Josh Allen has flourished with the Buffalo Bills, becoming one of the standout quarterbacks of his draft class. His performance and leadership have turned the Bills into perennial contenders, making the Broncos' choice to pass on him all the more glaring.
Health Struggles and Franchise Instability
Bradley Chubb's tenure with the Broncos was marred by health issues. Despite showing flashes of brilliance, his struggles to stay healthy significantly impacted his productivity. Eventually, Chubb was traded to the Miami Dolphins, bringing an end to another chapter that didn't unfold as hoped for the Broncos.
Meanwhile, Denver's issues under center have been unrelenting. Since Peyton Manning's retirement following the 2015 Super Bowl-winning season, the Broncos have cycled through 13 different starting quarterbacks, indicative of the instability that has plagued the team. Among those drafted by Elway was Paxton Lynch in 2016, who started only four games before his release in 2018.
Legacy and Reflections
Though Elway's tenure saw significant success early on, including a Super Bowl victory, the latter half underscores the NFL's fickle nature. The record of 32-48 in his final five seasons and the revolving door at the quarterback position, pivotal factors in the Broncos' playoff drought since 2015, weigh heavily on Elway's legacy as a general manager.
Elway stepped away from his role following the 2020 season, leaving behind a mixed legacy. His early success can't be overshadowed, but the inability to find a long-term solution at quarterback remains a focal point of critique. The decision to pass on Josh Allen, paired with the struggles of players like Paxton Lynch and Bradley Chubb, serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and pressures inherent in NFL management.
As the Broncos look to navigate their future, the lessons from Elway's tenure will undoubtedly echo in the halls of Mile High Stadium. The quest for stability and success continues, a narrative shaped by past decisions and the enduring hope of reclaiming former glory.