Josh Allen's Draft Class

Waren Burn

2 min read

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26-11-2024

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The 2018 NFL Draft is remembered by many as the year of the quarterbacks. While Baker Mayfield, Sam Darnold, and Lamar Jackson all went in the top seven, a certain Wyoming gunslinger slipped to the seventh overall pick: Josh Allen. Looking back, how did Allen's draft class fare, and what can we learn from the selections made that year?

The Top Quarterbacks

Allen wasn't the only quarterback taken highly in 2018. The Browns, in a move that defined their early 2010s dysfunction, selected Baker Mayfield first overall. The Jets followed suit, drafting Sam Darnold third overall. Lamar Jackson, a dynamic dual-threat quarterback, went to the Ravens with the 32nd pick – a surprising slide that ultimately proved beneficial for Baltimore.

These quarterbacks have had wildly different NFL careers. Mayfield, after a promising start, has faced struggles and has recently been traded. Darnold, after his time with the Jets, found a more stable situation but hasn't reached expected heights. Jackson, on the other hand, has established himself as one of the league's premier players, earning an MVP award and multiple Pro Bowl selections.

Allen's Trajectory

Allen's development has been fascinating. Initially criticized for his accuracy, he's steadily improved his mechanics and decision-making. While he's known for his arm strength and athleticism, the consistent improvement in his passing accuracy has been instrumental to his success. His journey highlights the complexities of quarterback development in the NFL – even highly touted prospects require time and refinement.

Beyond the Quarterbacks

The 2018 draft wasn't solely about quarterbacks. Several other players made significant contributions. Saquon Barkley, selected second overall by the Giants, emerged as a star running back before injuries hampered his career. Bradley Chubb, selected fifth overall by the Broncos, has established himself as a dominant pass rusher. Darius Leonard, a second-round pick by the Colts, quickly became one of the league's best linebackers.

These players, alongside Allen, showcase the unpredictable nature of the NFL Draft. While some players live up to the hype immediately, others take time to develop or face unforeseen challenges.

Lessons Learned

The 2018 draft class offers valuable lessons for NFL teams. The success of Allen, Jackson, and other players demonstrates that accurate evaluation is crucial, but development and adaptability are equally important. The class also highlights the importance of identifying and developing talent across all positions, not just the glamorous quarterback role.

Conclusion

Josh Allen's draft class remains a compelling case study in the NFL Draft's unpredictability. The contrasting trajectories of the quarterbacks underscore the importance of player development and the challenges of projecting future success. Ultimately, the 2018 draft reminds us that while pre-draft scouting is crucial, the NFL game is one of constant adaptation and evolution.