Starks Potential: A Bulldog Safety Could Bolster the Bengals’ Secondary
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Cincinnati Bengals find themselves in an interesting position at pick No. 17. While the offensive prowess of Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins is undeniable, the team’s defense has struggled, particularly in preventing big plays and red zone efficiency. This has led many analysts to believe the Bengals will prioritize defensive talent in the early rounds of the draft. One name that has surfaced as a potential target is University of Georgia safety, Malaki Starks.
Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing around 205 pounds, Starks possesses the ideal size and athleticism for an NFL safety. His career at Georgia has been nothing short of impressive. From his true freshman season in 2022, where he started 14 of 15 games and recorded 68 tackles and two interceptions, to his junior year in 2024, where he tallied a career-high 77 tackles and earned First-Team All-American honors, Starks has consistently demonstrated his ability to impact the game. He was also a key part of Georgia’s National Championship-winning team in 2022.
Starks’ versatility is one of his most appealing traits. He has significant experience playing as a deep safety, in the slot, and even in the box, showcasing his intelligence and adaptability. His fluid movement and quick change of direction allow him to cover a significant amount of ground in zone coverage and stick with receivers in man coverage, particularly out of the slot. He possesses impressive range and a high motor, enabling him to pursue ball carriers effectively. As a tackler, Starks is reliable, consistently wrapping up and bringing down opponents. His instincts in coverage are generally strong, and he demonstrates a knack for making plays on the ball.
While Starks has many qualities that translate well to the NFL, there are areas for improvement. At times, he can be a split second late in getting to the ball, and he doesn’t always handle blocks effectively, lacking the physicality to consistently shed them. He could also improve his technique in turning his head to locate the ball in coverage, relying more on his reactive athleticism.
However, the strengths Starks brings to the table are highly coveted in today’s NFL. His ability to play multiple roles in the secondary would provide defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo with valuable flexibility. His range and ball skills could help address the Bengals’ issues with deep coverage and creating turnovers. Furthermore, his tackling ability would be a welcome addition to a defense that needs to be more consistent in limiting opposing offenses.
Considering the Bengals’ clear need to bolster their defense, particularly the secondary, and Starks’ potential to be a high-level starter with Pro Bowl upside, he could be an excellent fit at pick No. 17. While other positions like edge rusher and interior offensive line are also areas of need, the opportunity to add a versatile and talented safety like Starks might be too good to pass up. Several mock drafts have indeed linked Starks to the Bengals, highlighting the potential synergy between his skillset and the team’s defensive requirements.
Ultimately, the Bengals’ decision will depend on how the board falls and their evaluation of the available talent at other positions of need. However, Malaki Starks presents a compelling option for a team looking to inject playmaking ability and versatility into their secondary. If he is available at No. 17, the Georgia safety could very well become a key piece in the Bengals’ quest to return to Super Bowl contention. His youth – he will be only 21 when his rookie season begins – also suggests significant potential for growth in the NFL. The combination of his physical tools, football intelligence, and proven production at a high level makes Malaki Starks a prospect the Cincinnati Bengals will undoubtedly be considering closely as the draft draws near.
