In a bold and strategic move, the Baltimore Ravens have selected Georgia safety Malaki Starks with the 27th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, signaling their continued commitment to strengthening their secondary with young, explosive talent.
Starks, a dynamic playmaker out of the University of Georgia, was widely regarded as one of the top defensive backs in this year’s draft class. Known for his elite athleticism, high football IQ, and versatility, Starks was a cornerstone of Georgia’s dominant defense during his college career. His selection by the Ravens is being hailed by analysts as a perfect fit for Baltimore’s defensive identity — fast, aggressive, and smart.
Standing at 6’1″ and weighing in at 205 pounds, Starks combines the size and physicality required for the safety position with the speed and instincts of a cornerback. Over his three seasons with the Bulldogs, he accumulated over 150 total tackles, 9 interceptions, and multiple highlight-reel pass breakups. His ability to play both deep in coverage and close to the line of scrimmage made him a nightmare for opposing offenses in the SEC.
Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta spoke about the selection shortly after the announcement: “Malaki Starks was one of the players we had our eyes on from the very beginning of this process. He’s the kind of athlete who can make an immediate impact on the field and bring leadership to the locker room. We’re thrilled to bring him to Baltimore.”
Baltimore’s decision to go with a safety in the first round comes after a season in which their secondary, though talented, was riddled with injuries and inconsistency. By adding Starks, they secure a long-term solution and a potential future All-Pro in their defensive backfield. Pairing him with star safety Kyle Hamilton could give the Ravens one of the most formidable safety tandems in the league for years to come.
Starks, who was present at the draft in Las Vegas, was visibly emotional upon hearing his name called. “This is a dream come true,” he said in his first interview as a Raven. “To be part of an organization with such a rich defensive tradition is an honor. I’m ready to get to work, represent my family and Georgia, and help bring a championship to Baltimore.”
Fans and analysts alike are applauding the Ravens’ pick, with many calling it one of the steals of the first round. NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah said, “Getting Malaki Starks at 27 is tremendous value. He’s a top-15 talent on my board. Baltimore got better tonight — no question.”
As the Ravens gear up for the 2025 season, Malaki Starks is expected to be a key contributor from day one. With his blend of talent, character, and competitiveness, Baltimore may have found the next great centerpiece of their storied defense.
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