Malaki Starks, a standout defensive back from the University of Georgia, is poised to be one of the top prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. At 6-foot-1 and 205 pounds, Starks possesses an ideal blend of size, athleticism, and football intelligence that has NFL scouts raving.
Background
Born on November 13, 2003, in Jefferson, Georgia, Starks was a five-star recruit and the No. 12 overall prospect in the class of 2022. He committed to the University of Georgia in October 2021, joining Kirby Smart’s powerhouse program.
College Career
Starks made an immediate impact as a true freshman in 2022, emerging as Georgia’s starting free safety and leading the defense in total snaps played[4]. He finished second on the team in tackles and was a key contributor to Georgia’s national championship-winning team.
In his sophomore season (2023), Starks elevated his game to new heights, earning consensus All-American honors. He finished the year with 52 tackles, including 31 solo stops, three interceptions, and seven pass breakups. His junior season in 2024 saw continued excellence, as he posted 77 tackles, one interception, and three pass breakups.
On January 6, 2025, Starks declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, cementing his status as one of the top defensive prospects available.
Strengths
Versatility
Starks is a Swiss Army knife in the secondary, capable of playing multiple positions with equal effectiveness. He has experience lining up as a high safety, in the slot, and in the box, making him a valuable asset in today’s multiple-look NFL defenses.
Run Defense
One of Starks’ most impressive traits is his ability to defend the run. He quickly diagnoses plays, takes sound angles in pursuit, and is a strong, reliable tackler. His willingness to come downhill and make plays near the line of scrimmage will be highly valued by NFL teams.
Coverage Skills
In coverage, Starks showcases outstanding athleticism and ball skills. He has quick feet that allow him to transition smoothly in and out of breaks, and his burst enables him to close gaps and drive on the ball effectively. His awareness in zone coverage is particularly noteworthy, as he consistently positions himself well in throwing lanes.
Football IQ
Starks’ high football intelligence is evident in his play. He reads keys quickly, anticipates plays, and rarely finds himself out of position. This mental acuity, combined with his physical tools, allows him to play fast and make impactful plays.
Physicality
Despite his role in the secondary, Starks is not afraid to mix it up in the box. He uses his hands well to shock and disengage from blockers, and he’s always looking to make plays on the other side of the line of scrimmage.
Areas for Improvement
While Starks is a well-rounded prospect, there are areas where he can still improve:
1. Man Coverage: Against faster receivers, Starks can occasionally be a step slow in sinking his hips, leading to separation. Refining his technique in this area could make him even more effective in man coverage situations.
2. Consistency: As with many young players, maintaining a high level of play throughout an entire NFL season will be crucial for Starks’ success at the next level.
NFL Projection
Malaki Starks projects as a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, with the potential to be selected in the top 10. His versatility, athleticism, and football IQ make him an attractive prospect for teams looking to bolster their secondary.
Starks has drawn comparisons to players like Kevin Byard, showcasing his potential to be a franchise cornerstone in an NFL secondary. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game – run defense, pass coverage, and even as a potential blitzer – will make him a valuable asset to any NFL defense.
Teams picking in the teens, such as the Dolphins, 49ers, Cowboys, Colts, and Falcons, should be particularly interested in Starks’ services. His skill set would allow these teams to deploy him in various ways, maximizing his impact on the field.
Conclusion
Malaki Starks enters the 2025 NFL Draft as one of the most complete safety prospects in recent years. His combination of physical tools, football intelligence, and proven production at the highest level of college football make him a safe bet to succeed in the NFL.
While he may need to refine some aspects of his game, particularly in man coverage against elite NFL receivers, Starks has all the makings of a day-one starter and potential Pro Bowl player. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways – whether it’s coming up in run support, dropping into coverage, or even blitzing from the secondary – will make him a valuable chess piece for NFL defensive coordinators.
As the NFL continues to evolve with more complex offensive schemes, versatile defensive backs like Starks become increasingly valuable. Whichever team selects Malaki Starks in the 2025 NFL Draft will be getting a player capable of anchoring their secondary for years to come.
