Malaki Starks becomes Kirby Smart’s highest drafted defensive back, taken by Baltimore Ravens

In the ever-evolving world of college football, few programs have built a reputation as consistently as the University of Georgia under head coach Kirby Smart. Known for developing elite players who seamlessly transition into the NFL, Georgia has become one of the most dominant football factories in the country. In 2025, that reputation reached new heights as one of Smart’s most promising defensive backs, Malaki Starks, was selected in the first round of the NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens. This moment marked a significant milestone, as Starks became Smart’s highest-drafted defensive back, solidifying his place in a long line of Georgia greats to make an impact in the NFL.

The decision by the Ravens to draft Starks, the dynamic safety out of Georgia, reflects both the evolution of the NFL’s emphasis on versatile, game-changing defensive players and Starks’ own development into one of the premier talents of the 2025 draft class. His selection not only underscores his individual talent but also highlights the remarkable growth of Georgia’s defensive program under Kirby Smart’s leadership.

In this article, we’ll explore Malaki Starks’ career at Georgia, his draft journey, and how his selection by the Ravens serves as a testament to the success of Smart’s program. We’ll also examine what Starks’ arrival means for the Baltimore Ravens, both for the present and the future.

Malaki Starks: A Rising Star in College Football

Malaki Starks’ journey to the NFL was paved with impressive accomplishments from his high school days to his stellar career at Georgia. Born and raised in Jefferson, Georgia, Starks was a highly regarded multi-sport athlete at Jefferson High School. As a standout in football, basketball, and track, Starks demonstrated a rare blend of athleticism and versatility that caught the attention of top college programs across the country. Despite being recruited as a cornerback, Starks’ natural athleticism, combined with his sharp football instincts, made him a perfect fit for the safety position, where he would ultimately thrive at Georgia.

Starks was a five-star recruit, ranked as one of the top overall players in the 2022 recruiting class. His decision to commit to Georgia signaled his belief in the program’s vision and his desire to play at the highest level. Upon arriving at Georgia, Starks made an immediate impact. His quick transition from high school football to the SEC showcased his readiness for the collegiate game. As a freshman, Starks was already playing a significant role in Georgia’s defense, earning respect for his football IQ, coverage ability, and playmaking skills.

His career at Georgia was highlighted by key performances in both the 2023 and 2024 seasons, where he solidified his status as one of the most dynamic defensive backs in college football. Whether it was his ability to lock down receivers in man-to-man coverage or his quick decision-making as a free safety, Starks showcased the full range of his abilities. His versatility became a defining trait, as he was equally adept at playing in the box against the run or serving as a deep-field safety with the ability to track down passes and make game-changing interceptions.

Perhaps most impressive about Starks’ development was his rapid improvement under the guidance of Kirby Smart and Georgia’s coaching staff. With each passing season, Starks refined his skills, learning how to read offenses with greater precision and improving his ball skills to generate turnovers. By his junior year, he had become one of the most feared defensive players in college football, frequently drawing praise for his ability to make critical plays at crucial moments. His ability to read the quarterback’s eyes and break on the ball with incredible speed made him a constant threat in Georgia’s defensive schemes.

The 2025 NFL Draft: Malaki Starks’ Moment in the Spotlight

Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, Malaki Starks was widely regarded as one of the top defensive backs available. His blend of size, speed, and instincts made him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams in need of a versatile and dynamic safety. Scouts were drawn to his ability to play both center field and closer to the line of scrimmage, while his quick decision-making and ball-hawking skills added to his appeal.

Starks’ draft stock only continued to rise as teams evaluated his performances in Georgia’s biggest games, including his key contributions in the College Football Playoff and national championship. His athleticism stood out at the NFL Combine, where he showcased his elite speed and quickness. His 40-yard dash time, combined with his agility drills, confirmed that he had the physical tools to excel in the NFL.

However, beyond his physical attributes, it was Starks’ football intelligence and maturity that made him stand out to teams. Starks had developed into a complete player over his three seasons at Georgia, and NFL scouts took notice of his ability to adjust to the speed of the game and make plays in high-pressure situations. As the draft approached, Starks was widely expected to be selected in the first round, and the Baltimore Ravens’ interest in him only increased as they focused on bolstering their secondary.

The Ravens, a team known for their defensive prowess, saw Starks as an ideal fit for their system. General manager Eric DeCosta and head coach John Harbaugh have long valued players who can contribute in multiple roles on defense, and Starks’ versatility made him a perfect match. With their first-round pick, the Ravens pulled the trigger and selected Starks, making him the 15th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This selection made history, as Starks became Kirby Smart’s highest-drafted defensive back, surpassing previous Bulldogs who had gone on to successful NFL careers.

What Malaki Starks Brings to the Baltimore Ravens

Starks’ selection by the Ravens has the potential to reshape the team’s defensive unit, adding a dynamic, playmaking safety to a group that already boasts a strong defensive foundation. The Ravens have long been known for their aggressive, ball-hawking defense, and Starks’ skill set fits seamlessly into that philosophy. His ability to cover a wide range of field assignments, from deep coverage to playing closer to the line of scrimmage against the run, gives the Ravens a versatile asset in their secondary.

One of the key areas where Starks can make an immediate impact is in coverage. He has the speed and agility to match up against both wide receivers and tight ends, giving defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald the flexibility to move him around and create mismatches for opposing offenses. Starks’ ability to recognize routes and jump on passes makes him a natural ball hawk, and his knack for creating turnovers could be an invaluable asset for the Ravens, who have made a name for themselves by forcing turnovers in critical situations.

Additionally, Starks’ leadership and maturity will be important for the Ravens’ defense. As a player who thrived in big-game situations at Georgia, Starks understands how to perform under pressure. His poise and experience in high-stakes environments will help him acclimate to the NFL quickly, while also helping to guide younger players in the Ravens’ secondary. His presence could be key in mentoring the Ravens’ younger defensive backs and helping them adjust to the speed and complexity of the NFL.

The Ravens’ defense already has several strong players, including cornerback Marlon Humphrey and linebacker Roquan Smith, but Starks’ addition gives them a player who can change the game in multiple ways. Whether it’s intercepting a pass, breaking up a crucial throw, or coming up with a timely stop against the run, Starks will be expected to make plays that shift the momentum of games. His versatility will allow the Ravens to use him in a variety of defensive schemes, and his athleticism will give them the ability to match up against any offense.

Kirby Smart’s Legacy: The Impact of Malaki Starks’ Draft Selection

Malaki Starks’ rise to the NFL represents another milestone in Kirby Smart’s transformation of Georgia into a perennial powerhouse. Smart has cultivated a reputation for developing NFL-caliber players, especially on the defensive side of the ball. From first-round picks like defensive linemen Jordan Davis and Travon Walker to elite cornerbacks and safeties, Georgia has become a top destination for players looking to showcase their talents on the biggest stage.

Starks’ selection as the highest-drafted defensive back from Smart’s program is a testament to the emphasis Smart has placed on recruiting and developing defensive talent. His ability to identify top-tier recruits and mold them into NFL-ready athletes is one of the cornerstones of his success. With Starks now joining the ranks of Georgia’s NFL-bound stars, Smart’s legacy as a recruiter and developer of defensive talent continues to grow.

The success of Starks and other Georgia players in the NFL also elevates the program’s reputation, helping to attract future generations of top-tier talent. Georgia’s ability to consistently produce NFL-caliber players, especially on defense, ensures that the program will remain at the top of college football for years to come.

A Bright Future for Malaki Starks

Malaki Starks’ selection by the Baltimore Ravens in the 2025 NFL Draft marks the beginning of what promises to be an exciting and successful professional career. As Kirby Smart’s highest-drafted defensive back, Starks has the opportunity to continue Georgia’s legacy of producing NFL talent while also making an immediate impact on one of the league’s premier defensive teams. With his combination of athleticism, football IQ, and versatility, Starks is poised to be a key contributor to the Ravens’ defense for years to come.

For Georgia fans, Starks’ success represents the continued growth and prominence of their beloved Bulldogs in the NFL. For Starks, it’s the realization of a dream that began back in Jefferson, Georgia, and a chance to showcase his talents on the biggest stage of all. As he embarks on this new chapter in his football journey, all eyes will be on him as he works to become a household name in the NFL.