Every time a discussion is brought up about the Miami Dolphins' quarterback situation, the last name usually mentioned is last season's starter: Matt Moore.

The forgotten quarterback went 6-3 in his final nine games and set career highs in passing yards (2,497) and touchdowns (16). Yet, every time you see the Dolphins, the team’s brass is talking about finding Moore’s replacement and upgrading at the position.

Here is Miami general manager Jeff Ireland thoughts on Moore from the NFL combine:

"I talked to him the other day, asked him where he’s at. He’s doing good. He’s out in California. Just wanted to say hello. He fits here. We’re glad to have Matt Moore on our roster. Last nine games we went 6-3, that’s pretty good. We’ve got to utilize his strengths. He needs to clean up his footwork and clean up his reads. That’s what the staff is going to do -- he’s going to be a big part of our team."

Moore is on the line of being a very good backup but not a franchise quarterback. Miami is setting its goals high to build a championship team over the next few years. Moore can win enough games to be competitive, but he's not the right starting quarterback to win the Dolphins a Super Bowl.

Ireland and Dolphins owner Stephen Ross both know that, which explains their actions. They are exploring Peyton Manning, Matt Flynn, Robert Griffin III, or any other quarterback who can potentially take Miami to the next level.

Moore's job in 2012 will be similar to last season's. It will be up to Moore to stay ready in the event there is an injury to the starting quarterback and his number is called.