Did the Baltimore Ravens draft their next Ed Reed with the selection of Malaki Starks with the No. 27 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft?
While that may be a bit bold, one ESPN Draft analyst has made a bold prediction about the Georgia Bulldogs product that will make Ravens fans giddy. Described as a high-character player with versatility in the defensive secondary, Starks is forecasted to lead in the NFL in one important stat in 2025.
As predicted by NFL draft analyst Jordan Reid in ESPN’s bold prediction on the 2025 rookie class, the Ravens rookie safety will be an interception king in Year 1.
Reid writes:
“Ravens safety Malaki Starks will lead the league in interceptions as a rookie. After playing slot corner during his final season at Georgia, Starks could be moving back to his more natural position at free safety in the NFL. That will lead to plenty of opportunities for interceptions, especially if Baltimore's talented defensive front forces off-target throws.”
Baltimore Ravens the perfect fit for Malaki Starks
The aggressive style of the Ravens front-seven should benefit a young player like Starks who whose physicality and natural instincts as a defender should fit right in with the Ravens. His quickness and speed will stand out and his high football IQ will put him in the right spots to manipulate opposing quarterbacks into throwing in his direction.
Starks was also effective against the run while at Georgia. That will translate to the NFL level and help make the Ravens even more solid against the run. Although it would be rather immature to compare him to Ed Reed before he has even taken a snap in the NFL, the size and skillset, along with his physicality will remind Ravens fans of the NFL Hall-of-Famer who was selected with the No. 24 overall pick in the 2002 NFL Draft. To note, the Ravens legend finished his career with 64 interceptions, 5 coming in his rookie season.
Does Starks have the ability to lead the NFL in interceptions?
As Jordan Reed mentioned, the aggressive style of the Ravens’ front-seven in pressuring the quarterback will lead to rushed throws and errant throws. The burst of Starks and his ability to close in on receivers will put him in position to make plays. While bold, it’s not a completely outlandish prediction given how the Ravens defend.
So, if Reed’s prediction holds up, then the Ravens will have once again hit the jackpot drafting late in the first round of the NFL draft. They may haven even selected their next great safety.