Elway’s Biggest Regret: Passing on Josh Allen, the “Franchise Quarterback” He Missed

John Elway, the legendary quarterback who led the Denver Broncos to five Super Bowl appearances and two victories, is a name synonymous with success in the NFL. But even legends make mistakes, and Elway admits his biggest regret as the Broncos’ general manager was passing on Josh Allen in the 2018 NFL Draft.

“Probably my biggest mistake,” Elway said in a 2021 interview with the Denver Post, reflecting on his decision to select quarterback Drew Lock at pick 42 instead of the dynamic Allen, who went to the Buffalo Bills at pick 7.

The 2018 Draft: A Gamble Gone Wrong

The 2018 NFL Draft was a pivotal moment for the Broncos, who were searching for a franchise quarterback after the departure of Trevor Siemian and the inconsistent play of Paxton Lynch. Elway, known for his astute drafting abilities, faced a tough decision.

While Allen was a raw prospect with undeniable athleticism and a powerful arm, he also had significant flaws. His accuracy was inconsistent, and his decision-making needed refinement. Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold were seen as more polished options, leading to Allen’s slide down the draft board.

Elway, however, chose to go with Lock, a player with more experience and a stronger throwing motion. The decision, however, proved to be a gamble that ultimately didn’t pay off. Lock, despite flashes of brilliance, never consistently lived up to the expectations, and his time with the Broncos ended in 2021.

The Rise of Josh Allen: A Quarterback Prodigy

Meanwhile, Allen’s journey took a different turn. Despite a rough rookie season, Allen’s raw talent began to blossom under the guidance of coach Sean McDermott and offensive coordinator Brian Daboll. He quickly transformed into a dual-threat quarterback, combining his powerful arm with his electrifying mobility, leading the Bills to unprecedented heights.

Numbers Don’t Lie: A Clear Comparison

The numbers tell a clear story. While Lock’s career with the Broncos was marked by inconsistency, with a 16-23 record and a career passer rating of 84.9, Allen has thrived in Buffalo. Since entering the league, Allen has compiled a 42-23 record, a passer rating of 93.2, and has led the Bills to three consecutive AFC East titles.

More Than Just Stats: A Leadership Shift

Allen’s impact extends beyond the box score. He has become a leader on and off the field, earning the respect of his teammates and fans alike. His work ethic and commitment to improvement have been instrumental in transforming the Bills from a struggling franchise into a perennial playoff contender.

Elway’s Reflections: A Lesson Learned

Elway, known for his competitive spirit, has acknowledged the mistake. “I had a chance to pick the franchise quarterback in the draft,” he said, reflecting on the missed opportunity. “And I passed on him.”

This admission speaks volumes about Elway’s integrity and his desire to learn from his mistakes. It also underscores the importance of taking calculated risks in the draft and recognizing the potential in players who might not fit the traditional mold.

The Future of Josh Allen: A Bright Prospect

Allen’s journey is far from over. At just 26 years old, he is already considered one of the best quarterbacks in the league. With his continued growth and the talent surrounding him in Buffalo, he has the potential to lead the Bills to their first Super Bowl title since 1993.

The Elway Legacy: A Lesson in Draft Day Decisions

Elway’s story serves as a reminder that even the greatest players and executives can make mistakes. It also highlights the importance of identifying future potential and understanding that sometimes, the best players don’t always fit the traditional mold.

While Elway’s decision to pass on Allen may be his biggest regret, it also serves as a valuable lesson for all NFL fans and decision-makers. It’s a reminder that in the unpredictable world of professional football, taking calculated risks and embracing the unknown can lead to unexpected success.

Keywords: John Elway, Josh Allen, Denver Broncos, Buffalo Bills, NFL Draft, 2018 NFL Draft, Drew Lock, Baker Mayfield, Sam Darnold, Sean McDermott, Brian Daboll, franchise quarterback, biggest mistake, regret, passer rating, NFL, Super Bowl, AFC East, leadership, potential, future, legacy, decision-making, draft day decisions.