Malaki Starks, the star safety from the University of Georgia and the Baltimore Ravens’ 27th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, is quickly embracing his new home.
Though the selection came as a surprise—Starks had only met with the team at the NFL Combine—his respect for head coach John Harbaugh and the Ravens organization has grown immensely.
Starks Speaks on Why John Harbaugh Is a Great Leader
In a recent one-on-one interview with RG, Starks spoke candidly about his impressions of Harbaugh. “I love him,” said Starks. “He’s a great leader, and just his sense of calmness that he brings to the organization — he’s so competitive, he’s so controlled, everything is so controlled. He has a plan for everything. It’s really cool just to see that process of going about things.”
Starks’ appreciation for Harbaugh deepened after his first rookie minicamp, where he got a firsthand look at the discipline and structure that define the Ravens. The experience left a strong impression. “It was fun. We got a little taste of what it’s going to be like. We had a really good group of guys that came in… We’re all excited to come back.”
The Ravens have made the playoffs 12 times in Harbaugh’s 17 years at the helm and have had only two losing seasons—a testament to the consistency and leadership Starks now admires up close. “It’s been an honor, it really has,” he reflected. “They have a really great organization… Their brand matches the people, it’s very clean and it’s run in a certain type of way.”
Harbaugh, in turn, has offered glowing praise for his new rookie safety. Following a strong minicamp showing, Harbaugh recognized Starks’ impact. The coach commended his indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment, qualities that have already resonated with the locker room and signal a high ceiling for the young defensive back.
Starks is eager to keep learning, even from the offensive side. He’s especially looking forward to practicing against Lamar Jackson during the upcoming OTAs. “I think it’s an awesome opportunity… Just being able to pick his brain and to see how he thinks, his progressions,” said Starks. “It helps that he’s the best quarterback in the league.”
As he transitions from college star to NFL student, Starks acknowledges the adjustment ahead. “It’s really re-learning everything… just kind of taking knowledge that I had at Georgia, but just expanding it from a league perspective with all the rules.”
Still, with a mentor like Harbaugh guiding him, Starks seems poised for a seamless integration—and a bright NFL future.