April 1, 2008

Needs on offense: Sources say the Saints are committed to the “best player available” approach to the draft and won’t shy away from adding to an already explosive offense if a player they have rated highly is available. With Deuce McAllister coming off his second ACL tear in three seasons, New Orleans might be tempted to choose a ballcarrier, even though it has great depth at running back.

Needs on defense: The Saints filled gaps on each level of their defense, but a lack of playmakers remains. Free-agent addition Randall Gay and Jason David, a huge disappointment in 2007, will compete to become the No. 2 cornerback, but both players are better-suited to play nickel back. An upgrade and injection of versatility at defensive tackle is in order, as well.

On Draft Day … GM Mickey Loomis and head coach Sean Payton found immediate impact players in their first draft in New Orleans but were unable to replicate the feat with their picks last year. The team has to find instant contributors on defense in order to compete for the NFC title as it did in ’06.