ESPN NFL expert Jordan Reid and other NFL draft analysts love how former Georgia Bulldogs safety Malaki Starks fits into an already formidable Baltimore Ravens secondary. The Ravens got a steal when they selected Starks with the No. 27 pick in the 2025 NFL draft. Baltimore always seems to find excellent value in the draft.

Starks proved himself in his first game as a true freshman at Georgia. He started as a freshman and helped the Bulldogs win a national championship in 2022. His top freshman year highlight included an acrobatic interception of quarterback Bo Nix, who now starts for the Denver Broncos.

Starks’ instincts and range should immediately translate to the NFL level. He joins a Baltimore secondary that features All-Pro Kyle Hamilton, who is already considered to be the top safety in the league.

Reid’s bold prediction for Malaki Starks

Reid predicts that Starks will lead the NFL in interceptions as a rookie. If Starks accomplishes that, then he’d be the first rookie to lead the NFL in interceptions since Seattle Seahawks cornerback Riq Woolen led the league in interceptions (tied) back in 2022.

“Starks will lead the league in interceptions as a rookie,” said Reid. “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.”

We have to agree that Starks has an excellent opportunity in Baltimore. The Ravens’ high powered offense and strong front-seven should force opposing teams into a high percentage of obvious passing situations.

This article originally appeared on UGA Wire: Ravens rookie Malaki Starks predicted to lead NFL in interceptions