Which position should the Saints address with their top picks? Our writers chime in.

As the NFL draft approaches, our Saints beat writers and columnists got together for a roundtable discussion on some of the most important questions facing the team. Our writers also chime in on what they would do if given the power to make decisions for the Saints.

Tuesday morning, we discussed Hendon Hooker’s pre-draft visit to Saints headquarters.

Here’s the second of five questions (and our answers):

2. The Saints have filled some of their biggest holes in free agency so far. All things considered equal, which position would you like to see them address with their top picks?

Luke Johnson: The defensive line has served as the bedrock of the Saints’ defensive renaissance these last few years — but the unit could really use an infusion of young talent, whether that’s on the edge or the interior. Cam Jordan is not getting any younger, and there are legitimate unanswered questions about the rest of the defensive ends. The Saints like their two free-agent acquisitions at defensive tackle, Khalen Saunders and Nathan Shepherd, but the interior still feels short of someone who can impact the game as a pass rusher.

Terrin Waack: It wouldn’t hurt to add another running back. Jamaal Williams was a good snag in free agency. If there were no doubt he and Alvin Kamara would share the entire backfield load in 2023, then I’d pick a different position. But there is doubt surrounding Kamara. His pending legal case may affect his playing time. The Saints should be prepared for the worst-case scenario, and they haven’t re-signed free agents Mark Ingram, Dwayne Washington or David Johnson, who rotated behind Kamara last year.

Rod Walker: Defensive line would be my first answer, but Luke snagged that one already, so I’ll pivot in a different direction and say linebacker. The Saints lost Kaden Elliss in free agency, and Demario Davis just turned 34. Davis is still playing well, but drafting a player and letting him learn under Davis would be a good move that could pay huge dividends once Davis calls it quits. Pete Werner had a solid 2022 season, but the Saints could use more depth there.

Jeff Duncan: I agree with everyone else here. Defensive line, running back and linebacker are all areas of need. But the interior defensive line, specifically a pass-rushing talent, feels like the most pressing need on the roster. Saunders and Shepherd are solid players, but neither is a difference-maker. I also think edge rusher is an overlooked need. Cam Jordan isn’t getting any younger, and Carl Granderson and Payton Turner are largely unproven.