The Saints went after a need by taking Regina DT Akiem Hicks (6-5, 318) with their first pick of 2012 draft in the third round (No. 89 overall). Hicks was rated as the No. 124 overall prospect and 12th best DT by NFLDraftScout.com. New Orleans added DT Brodrick Bunkley during free agency, but inside defensive line help remained high on the priority list.