ESPN’s Matt Miller Projects Georgia Bulldogs Star to Be Selected in First Round of the 2026 NFL Draft Next Spring

The University of Georgia has built a reputation as one of the premier pipelines to the NFL over the past decade, and the trend appears set to continue. According to ESPN NFL Draft analyst Matt Miller, another Bulldogs standout is poised to hear his name called early when the 2026 NFL Draft arrives. Miller, widely respected for his early scouting and draft projections, recently unveiled his first set of rankings for next year’s draft cycle, and one Georgia star is firmly in the first-round conversation.

While Georgia has consistently produced elite talent across both sides of the ball, this particular player has drawn national attention for his dominant performances and undeniable athletic potential. Though the draft is still nearly ten months away, Miller’s projections have already begun shaping the early narrative, and Georgia fans will be excited to see another Bulldog in the spotlight.

The player in question is defensive back Malaki Starks, a dynamic playmaker who has already made waves across the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and beyond. Starks’ name appearing in first-round mocks isn’t a surprise to those who have followed his career closely. From his freshman season, Starks showcased rare instincts, explosive athleticism, and a knack for finding the football, traits that translate exceptionally well to the next level.

Miller’s projection of Starks as a first-round pick reflects the continued emphasis NFL franchises place on versatile, rangy defensive backs who can neutralize modern passing attacks. At 6-foot-1 and 205 pounds, Starks combines ideal size with the speed and fluidity required to cover today’s most dangerous receivers and tight ends. His ability to play both as a center-field safety and closer to the line of scrimmage gives defensive coordinators flexibility, making him one of the most coveted defensive prospects in the nation.

Since arriving in Athens, Starks has embodied the defensive excellence that has become synonymous with Kirby Smart’s Georgia program. His football IQ, anticipation, and physicality have set him apart in the loaded SEC, earning him All-American consideration and the respect of opponents and NFL scouts alike.

In Miller’s analysis, Starks’ projection as a potential first-rounder is based not only on his collegiate production but also his projection as a scheme-versatile defender with the ceiling to become a Pro Bowl-level player in the NFL. The modern NFL demands defensive backs who can seamlessly transition between coverage responsibilities, provide run support, and excel in high-pressure situations. Starks, with his combination of athletic tools and mental acuity, checks every box.

The Georgia Bulldogs, under Smart’s leadership, have become a powerhouse in developing pro-ready talent, particularly on defense. In recent years, Georgia has sent numerous defensive backs, edge rushers, and front-seven stars to the league, many of whom have blossomed into immediate contributors. From Jalen Carter to Kelee Ringo, the Bulldogs’ defensive factory continues to churn out NFL-ready prospects, and Starks appears to be next in line.

For Starks, the 2025 season represents both an opportunity to cement his first-round status and a chance to add to Georgia’s rich legacy. The Bulldogs are once again expected to contend for a College Football Playoff berth and a national championship, and Starks will be a pivotal piece of the puzzle. His leadership in the secondary, ability to make game-changing plays, and steady presence in big moments are critical to Georgia’s defensive identity.

Scouts and draft analysts have already begun dissecting Starks’ game film, noting his smooth transitions in coverage, aggressive tackling, and keen awareness in zone schemes. His versatility allows Georgia to disguise coverages and bring pressure in creative ways, a hallmark of Smart’s defensive philosophy. NFL evaluators value such traits highly, especially in a league increasingly dominated by high-powered offenses and versatile receiving threats.

Miller’s early mock drafts and scouting reports have highlighted Starks’ ball skills as a distinguishing factor. His ability to track the football in flight, disrupt passing lanes, and generate turnovers has made him a game-wrecker at the collegiate level. Over his first two seasons in Athens, Starks recorded multiple interceptions, pass breakups, and critical defensive stops, showcasing the type of playmaking ability that elevates draft stock significantly.

Another factor working in Starks’ favor is Georgia’s consistent exposure on the national stage. Playing in marquee SEC matchups, rivalry games, and high-stakes postseason contests provides Starks with ample opportunities to showcase his talents against top-tier competition. NFL teams often weigh performance in big games heavily, and Starks has already proven he thrives under pressure.

Off the field, Starks has earned praise for his work ethic, maturity, and football intelligence—all qualities NFL franchises value. In pre-draft evaluations, interviews, and the NFL Combine, those intangibles can separate prospects with similar athletic profiles. With Georgia’s track record of developing disciplined, coachable, and NFL-ready players, Starks enters the draft process with a built-in advantage.

Georgia fans will be watching Starks closely this upcoming season, knowing each game brings him one step closer to realizing his NFL dream. For Starks, the goal remains twofold: help Georgia capture another national championship and position himself as one of the top defensive prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Miller’s projection has only fueled the growing buzz surrounding Starks, but expectations are nothing new in Athens. The Bulldogs have thrived under the spotlight, producing national champions and NFL stars in equal measure. As the 2025 season unfolds, Starks will have the chance to solidify his standing, impress scouts, and etch his name alongside Georgia’s proud tradition of first-round draft picks.

The 2026 NFL Draft promises to be another showcase for Georgia’s elite program, with Starks leading the charge. If he maintains his trajectory, refines his technique, and continues to deliver game-changing plays, hearing his name called in the first round next spring will be the culmination of years of dedication and hard work.

For now, the spotlight shines brightly on Malaki Starks—a testament to his immense potential and a reflection of Georgia’s unwavering status as an NFL talent pipeline. With Matt Miller’s endorsement serving as the latest validation of Starks’ first-round stock, all eyes turn to Athens, where another Bulldogs star is preparing to make his NFL dreams a reality.