2011 NFL Draft Results: Ryan Mallett Drafted Before Miami Dolphins Can Grab Him

Prior to the 2011 NFL draft, many analysts and experts speculated that the Miami Dolphins would be targeting a quarterback. There weren't any specifics, but according to a recent report by NESN.com, the Miami Dolphins had significant interest in Ryan Mallett.

Mallett was the New England Patriots' third-round selection at 74th overall, and according to the report, the Dolphins attempted to trade into the third round as the team didn't possess any third-round selections. 

However, according to the Miami Herald, the Patriots selected Mallett before the Dolphins could even make a legitimate attempt to trade into the third round and grab Mallett. 

In the recent report, a source close to the Miami Dolphins' front office discussed how the team attempted to draft the former Arkansas Razorback:

"We were willing to take him, we just couldn't get our hands on him," a close source to the Dolphins' front office to the Herald. "We tried, but we couldn't do it. He's going to be a good quarterback."

You may not think of the Patriots and Dolphins as a rivalry, but they're both AFC East contenders that have been in a fierce battle for the divisional crown, along with the New York Jets, over the past decade. 

Now the Patriots have Mallett and the Dolphins walked away from the 2011 draft without any quarterback—they're stuck with Chad Henne, for now at least.

I'd expect the Dolphins to make a play for a quarterback such as Kevin Kolb or Donavan McNabb via trade or even take a chance at veteran quarterback Marc Bulger via free agency—once the NFL lockout is resolved. 

Taking a look at both the Dolphins and Patriots draft, I'd have to give the edge to New England. 

The Patriots may have not only won the 6'7" quarterback, but their 2011 draft class looks much more promising than the Dolphins. 

This article was first seen at PatriotsPlus.net. Be sure to follow Tony Santorsa on Twitter @ TonySantorsa.