The Baltimore Ravens are less than three weeks away from opening training camp. Few storylines are generating more buzz than the early impact of rookie safety Malaki Starks.
Selected with the 27th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Starks is already emerging as a player who could reshape Baltimore’s secondary.
With expectations high for the Ravens, Starks’ early performance has added another layer of intrigue to a roster that is already among the deepest in the NFL.
Starks Fits The Mold Of Ravens Culture
The Ravens have long built their identity around physical, disciplined defense. That tradition is expected to continue under new defensive coordinator Zach Orr, who now has elite talent at all three levels.
But even on a loaded unit, Starks is making a case to start from day one. His ability to digest the playbook, communicate with teammates, and lead by example has fast-tracked his development. By the time the full roster reports on July 22, Starks could already have a leg up in one of the team’s most competitive position battles.
At Georgia, Starks was a do-it-all safety who filled multiple roles across Kirby Smart’s defensive backfield. He posted 197 tackles, six interceptions, and 17 passes defended over three seasons.
In 2024, Starks’ production dipped slightly, but that drop was tied more to his versatility than any regression. He was asked to play deep, in the box, and in man coverage situations depending on matchups. That adaptability has translated well to the NFL.
Another Defensive Gem In Baltimore
Despite being projected as a top-15 pick, the Ravens were able to scoop him up at No. 27 overall. It’s shaping up to be one of the biggest steals of the first round. Starks has already taken first-team reps during offseason workouts and appears well on his way to earning a significant role once the season kicks off.
Head coach John Harbaugh praised Starks’ readiness and work ethic following minicamp.
“You throw a situation at him, and he knows,” Ravens head coach Jim Harbaugh said, per Kelsey Kramer of A To Z Sports. “He’s been studying and comes prepared. I’ve never seen him make a real mistake yet. He’s very much a pro, probably way advanced beyond his years.”
What makes Starks’ emergence even more valuable is the timing. The Ravens’ secondary faces turnover and a tougher AFC schedule in 2025. They’ll need young players to step in and play meaningful snaps. Starks has not only shown that he’s capable but that he may already be one of the smartest defensive players on the field.
It’s reasonable to expect Starks to be in the starting lineup come Week 1 if he continues to flourish in camp. The Ravens already boast a defense with high-end potential. Adding a player like Starks to that mix could help elevate them into elite territory.
His ceiling is that of a long-term difference-maker—a rangy, instinctive safety who fits perfectly in Baltimore’s scheme and culture.
In a draft class full of big names and splashy prospects, Starks is quietly positioning himself as one of the most impactful rookies in the league.
As training camp approaches, all eyes in Baltimore should be on No. 24.
