The Baltimore Ravens select former Georgia Bulldog Malaki Starks in the first round of the NFL Draft, strengthening their secondary.

In one of the most highly anticipated selections of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Baltimore Ravens made a bold move by selecting Malaki Starks, the standout safety from the University of Georgia, with their first-round pick. The Ravens, known for their strong defensive pedigree, saw Starks as the ideal player to bolster their secondary and take their defense to the next level. His combination of speed, football intelligence, and playmaking ability made him one of the most coveted defensive prospects in the draft, and his selection signals a new chapter in both his career and the Ravens’ quest for continued defensive dominance.

For Georgia, Starks’ selection marks another milestone in a long line of NFL-bound talent that has emerged from the program in recent years. Under head coach Kirby Smart, Georgia has become a powerhouse of defensive talent, and Starks’ success in the NFL Draft is yet another testament to the Bulldogs’ reputation as a breeding ground for elite athletes.

In this article, we will delve into Malaki Starks’ journey from high school standout to Georgia Bulldog star, his skill set that makes him such a promising first-round pick, and how his selection by the Baltimore Ravens could reshape their defensive future.

Malaki Starks: From High School Star to Georgia Bulldog

Malaki Starks’ journey to the NFL is one defined by incredible athleticism, work ethic, and a passion for football. Hailing from Jefferson, Georgia, Starks quickly emerged as one of the top prospects in the country during his high school career. As a multi-sport athlete, Starks excelled in football, basketball, and track, but it was on the football field where he truly made his mark. As a safety, cornerback, and wide receiver for Jefferson High School, Starks displayed the versatility that would become a hallmark of his playing style throughout his career.

Starks was a standout on both sides of the ball, and his performances caught the attention of major college programs. His ability to read the game and his natural athleticism made him a five-star recruit, and he ultimately committed to the University of Georgia, choosing to stay close to home and play for one of the top programs in college football.

Upon arriving at Georgia, Starks quickly adjusted to the speed and physicality of the SEC, becoming a starter as a freshman. He was immediately recognized for his range, vision, and ability to make plays on the ball. His ability to cover ground quickly and his knack for being in the right place at the right time made him an indispensable part of Georgia’s defense. In his first season, Starks showed that he was ready for the next level, earning All-SEC honors and helping Georgia secure a spot in the College Football Playoff.

Starks continued to develop throughout his sophomore and junior seasons. His understanding of the game deepened, and he honed his skills both in coverage and against the run. He became known for his ability to lock down opposing receivers, disrupt passing lanes, and create turnovers. His ability to play in both single-high and two-high safety roles made him a versatile weapon in Georgia’s defensive scheme, allowing him to impact the game in multiple ways. Starks’ leadership, poise, and unrelenting pursuit of excellence made him one of the most respected players on Georgia’s defense and a key component of their national championship runs.

Why Malaki Starks Was a First-Round Pick

Malaki Starks’ selection in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft is a reflection of the tremendous potential he has to offer at the next level. His combination of athleticism, football IQ, and versatility makes him one of the most well-rounded defensive players in the draft class. While Starks is primarily known for his prowess as a safety, his ability to play in various roles and cover a wide range of responsibilities on the field sets him apart from other prospects.

Elite Athleticism and Speed

One of the most obvious traits that stand out about Starks is his elite athleticism. Standing at 6’1” and weighing 205 pounds, Starks possesses the ideal frame for an NFL safety. His size allows him to cover a wide range of receivers and tight ends while still being able to play in the box against the run. However, it’s his speed that truly sets him apart. Starks consistently ran a 4.4-second 40-yard dash, making him one of the fastest safeties in the draft.

His quickness and explosiveness allow him to cover ground in a hurry, whether he’s tracking down a ball carrier or breaking on a pass. His ability to close the gap quickly and make plays on the ball makes him an elite threat in coverage, as he can disrupt passing lanes and create turnovers. Whether it’s a deep ball or a short route, Starks’ speed allows him to play with incredible range, making him a nightmare for quarterbacks to read and avoid.

Football IQ and Instincts

In addition to his physical attributes, Starks also possesses an exceptional football IQ. He has an innate ability to read offenses and react quickly to changing situations on the field. This ability to process information rapidly allows him to anticipate plays before they happen, giving him the edge over opposing players. Whether he’s covering a receiver in the open field or reading the quarterback’s eyes to jump a route, Starks’ football instincts are second to none.

His understanding of defensive schemes and his ability to adapt on the fly make him a valuable asset in the NFL. Starks’ smarts allow him to communicate effectively with his teammates, ensuring that they are all on the same page and executing the game plan. This trait is especially important in the NFL, where the complexity of offensive schemes requires a high level of mental acuity from defenders.

Versatility and Playmaking Ability

Another key reason why Starks was selected in the first round is his versatility. Throughout his career at Georgia, he showcased the ability to play in multiple defensive roles. Whether it was covering a receiver in the slot, playing center field as a free safety, or lining up in the box against the run, Starks displayed a level of comfort in a variety of assignments. This flexibility makes him a valuable asset for any defense, as he can be deployed in different areas depending on the game situation.

Starks’ playmaking ability is another factor that sets him apart. He has a nose for the football and the ability to make game-changing plays at critical moments. Whether it’s an interception, a forced fumble, or a timely pass breakup, Starks has a knack for making big plays in crucial situations. This ability to impact the game when it matters most is what makes him such an appealing prospect for NFL teams looking for a game-changer on defense.

The Baltimore Ravens and What Jalen Starks Brings to Their Defense

For the Baltimore Ravens, selecting Malaki Starks with the 15th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft represents a strategic move to continue their tradition of strong defensive play. Known for their history of building dominant defenses, the Ravens have always prided themselves on finding versatile, playmaking defenders, and Starks fits that mold perfectly.

The Ravens have been in need of a dynamic safety who can both cover the field and contribute to stopping the run. While their defense has traditionally excelled in the pass rush and cornerback play, adding Starks to the mix gives them a player who can be a disruptor in every aspect of the game. Whether he’s playing deep center field in a single-high safety look, covering tight ends and running backs in the passing game, or contributing in the box against the run, Starks’ versatility provides defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald with endless options to use him in different roles.

Starks’ ability to create turnovers will also be an asset for the Ravens, a team that thrives on defense and has a history of forcing takeaways. His speed and instincts make him a threat to pick off passes or recover fumbles, and his disruptive play style will help generate turnovers for the Ravens’ defense. Given the team’s emphasis on aggressive, ball-hawking defensive schemes, Starks is a perfect fit for their system.

Additionally, Starks’ leadership and maturity on the field will be invaluable to a young, developing secondary. The Ravens have a solid foundation on defense, but Starks brings a level of energy and composure that will help elevate the play of those around him. As a player who can contribute immediately and provide leadership in the locker room, Starks is poised to be a key figure in the Ravens’ defensive success for years to come.

What This Means for Georgia and the NFL

Starks’ first-round selection is another testament to the dominance of Georgia’s football program, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. Under Kirby Smart, Georgia has consistently produced top-tier NFL talent, and Starks’ rise is just the latest example of this. With Starks’ ability to step into the NFL and make an immediate impact, Georgia continues to solidify its reputation as one of the top programs for developing professional-caliber players.

For the NFL, Starks’ selection represents the increasing importance of versatile safeties in today’s game. As offenses continue to evolve and feature more dynamic, fast-paced schemes, having a safety who can cover a wide range of responsibilities is crucial. Starks is a modern-day safety who can contribute in multiple areas of the game, and his success will likely inspire more teams to target similar players in future drafts.