Instant gratification on Ireland press conference

Jeff Ireland must have mentioned the fact the Dolphins have only two running backs on the roster at least four times this afternoon during his annual pre-draft presser.

I think that's where they're going, but that's for another time and another post.

Ireland made the point that running backs that are successful long-term in the NFL are not necessarily late-rounders like many so-called experts have been saying. "They're going to be first and second rounders," he said.

Having said that, Ireland said he doesn't feel like he must take a RB. "I don't want to reach for a player to fill a roster spot," he said.

The Dolphins general manager was asked about quarterbacks available to the Dolphins, particularly Ryan Mallett. "I have spent a lot of time with him," Ireland admitted. "We've been very thorough about him much like we are with every player we're considering drafting. Sometimes when there's information out there you want to dispel rumors and get as much information as you can with any player out there. That's why we went through the process. He's a nice young man. Very talented kid. He's got a bright future."

Ireland was not about to shut down any possibility today. He actually said he might be willing to trade up in the same breath he admitted he's "restricted" with eight draft picks but only two in the first three rounds.

Ireland admitted the fact free agency has not happened is a factor for teams, including the Dolphins. He said it will not affect the manner in which teams set  and prepare their boards. But it will have an impact on the strategy the teams use on draft day because everyone will be trying to fill needs that perhaps in previous years they had already addressed in free agency.