Mel Kiper Jr. Describes His Admiration for Ravens’ Malaki Starks

The NFL Draft is always a time of excitement and anticipation, especially when players emerge from the college ranks with exceptional talent and potential. Among the names that garnered attention in recent years, one player whose skills and potential have impressed not only his peers but also respected analysts like Mel Kiper Jr. is Malaki Starks, the talented safety drafted by the Baltimore Ravens.

Kiper, one of the most prominent and well-respected draft analysts in the industry, has built a reputation for his sharp eye in evaluating talent. His insights into a player’s skill set, work ethic, and potential often carry significant weight in the football world. When Kiper speaks highly of a player, it’s clear that there is something special about that individual. In this case, his admiration for Starks shines through, and his assessment of the young safety’s abilities reveals a bright future ahead for the Ravens.

A Natural Playmaker in the Secondary

Malaki Starks’ journey to the NFL began at the University of Georgia, where he quickly became a standout on one of the most dominant defenses in college football. The Georgia Bulldogs’ defense has long been lauded for its intensity, physicality, and ability to shut down opposing offenses. Starks, with his natural talent and leadership on the field, fit perfectly into that system. He was a key contributor to Georgia’s defense, earning the respect of coaches, teammates, and opponents alike.

In his time at Georgia, Starks proved himself to be a dynamic and versatile safety. His ability to cover ground quickly, diagnose plays, and make crucial tackles in both the pass and run game made him one of the most sought-after defensive players in the 2025 NFL Draft. It was clear that Starks had the raw athleticism and skill set to succeed at the next level, but what impressed Kiper the most was his mental approach to the game.

“He’s a true student of the game,” Kiper remarked. “You can see how he processes information on the field. He doesn’t just react—he anticipates. That’s a rare trait for a young player, especially one coming out of college. He’s not just physically gifted; he’s a guy who understands the game at a deep level.”

Kiper’s praise for Starks highlights what many saw in the safety during his college career. Starks isn’t just relying on his physical tools; he combines them with a sharp football IQ and the ability to read offenses, making him a player who can dictate the flow of a game. This rare blend of instincts and skill is what makes him so special.

Physical Tools That Stand Out

Starks’ physical attributes are undeniable. Standing at 6’1″ and weighing around 210 pounds, he possesses the ideal size for a safety at the NFL level. His long arms and broad shoulders allow him to cover receivers effectively and make difficult tackles. But it’s not just his size that sets him apart—Starks also possesses elite speed and agility, two key factors that make him a dangerous presence in both the secondary and as a potential ball hawk.

His speed allows him to close gaps quickly, whether it’s chasing down a ball carrier on a long run or providing deep coverage in the backfield. Starks’ range as a safety is exceptional, and it’s something that Kiper often highlights when talking about his skill set.

“He’s a guy who can cover the entire field,” Kiper said. “Whether it’s covering deep routes or coming up to stop the run, Malaki has the range to make plays all over the place. He’s got a burst in his step that you rarely see from safeties in this class. He’s one of the most athletic guys you’ll find at that position.”

One of the hallmarks of a great safety is their ability to make plays in key situations, and Starks has demonstrated that ability time and again. Whether it’s picking off a quarterback or breaking up a pass, Starks always seems to be in the right place at the right time. His natural ball skills, paired with his athleticism, make him a constant threat to opposing offenses.

A Leader Both On and Off the Field

Leadership is another aspect of Starks’ game that hasn’t gone unnoticed. Even as a young player at Georgia, he quickly established himself as a leader in the secondary. His ability to communicate and direct traffic on the field made him a key figure in one of the most formidable defenses in college football. Kiper has often praised Starks’ maturity, which goes beyond his years.

“He’s a guy who has the respect of his teammates, and that says a lot,” Kiper said. “As a young player, it’s not easy to step into that leadership role, but Malaki did it effortlessly. He leads by example, and his work ethic is contagious. That’s something NFL teams love to see, especially in a player with his potential.”

The Ravens, known for their strong defensive culture, will undoubtedly benefit from Starks’ leadership on the field. His ability to take command of the secondary and motivate his teammates will make him a valuable asset for Baltimore, which is known for developing and maximizing defensive talent.

Adapting to the NFL Game

While Starks’ college career was filled with success, the transition to the NFL is never easy. Players must adjust to a higher level of competition, and even the most talented individuals face challenges as they adapt to the speed and complexity of the pro game. But Kiper is confident that Starks has the tools to make that transition smoothly.

“The mental aspect of the game is so important at the NFL level, and I have no doubt that Malaki will be able to adjust,” Kiper said. “He’s got the football IQ, and he’s always looking to improve. The Ravens are a perfect fit for him because of their emphasis on defense and development. They’ve got a great coaching staff that will be able to bring out the best in him.”

Kiper’s belief in Starks’ ability to adapt is grounded in the safety’s work ethic and his willingness to learn. During his time at Georgia, Starks was known for his meticulous preparation, studying film, and constantly refining his skills. This drive to improve is what will help him thrive in the NFL, where the competition is fierce, and every play matters.

What Starks Brings to the Ravens

For the Baltimore Ravens, the addition of Malaki Starks is a significant one. The team has long been known for its strong defensive identity, and Starks fits that mold perfectly. His ability to cover both the pass and run, his natural playmaking ability, and his leadership in the secondary make him a perfect fit for the Ravens’ defense.

With Starks on the roster, the Ravens now have a young player who can be a cornerstone of their defense for years to come. He provides a versatile option in the secondary, whether it’s playing as a traditional safety or moving into a more hybrid role. His range and athleticism make him a matchup problem for opposing offenses, and his ability to read the game gives him a strong advantage in coverage.

The Ravens are known for their ability to develop young talent, and Starks has the potential to be one of their most impactful players in the years ahead. His combination of size, athleticism, and football IQ gives him the tools to succeed in the NFL, and with the right coaching, he could develop into one of the top safeties in the league.

A Bright Future Ahead

Malaki Starks’ journey to the NFL is just beginning, but the foundation he has built throughout his college career and the admiration he’s earned from analysts like Mel Kiper Jr. suggest that his future in the league is incredibly promising. Kiper’s glowing praise of Starks speaks to the immense potential he has as both a player and a leader. His athleticism, football IQ, and ability to make plays will serve him well as he embarks on his NFL career with the Baltimore Ravens.

For Ravens fans, the excitement surrounding Starks is palpable. With a player like him in the fold, the team’s defense only gets stronger, and the future looks bright for the franchise. Starks may be a young player, but his trajectory is one that points toward greatness. The combination of his raw talent and his relentless work ethic will ensure that he’s not just another player on the field—but a player who can make a lasting impact on the Ravens and the NFL as a whole.

As the NFL world watches the next generation of stars rise, Malaki Starks is a name that is sure to continue gaining recognition. With analysts like Mel Kiper Jr. singing his praises, it’s clear that the future is bright for this young safety, and his journey has only just begun.