Jared Goff was one of the NFL’s top performers last season, leading the Detroit Lions to an impressive run that caught the attention of the entire league. With that spotlight on him, one of the top prospects in the upcoming NFL Draft — a standout from the Georgia Bulldogs — didn’t hesitate to send a clear message to the former Rams quarterback.
Malaki Starks was one of the top-performing players at his position last season, standing out in college football while playing for the Bulldogs. Now declared eligible for the upcoming Draft, the standout safety has his sights set on one goal: picking off Goff.
During a recent interview on Kay Adams’ show Up & Adams, Starks — the former Georgia standout coached by Kirby Smart — took a moment to think when asked which quarterback he’d most like to intercept. But in the end, he didn’t hesitate to name the current Lions QB.
“Jared Goff,” Starks said after thinking for a few seconds. “Just talking to some of my teammates that use to play here who are in the league now. He’s an elite of elite quarterback, so just being able to add that to my resume. Some of the guys, the way they talk about him, [I think] that would be cool.”
Malaki Starks of Georgia speaks to the media during the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 27, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Where could Starks land in the upcoming NFL Draft?
Malaki Starks is projected as a potential first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, with several teams in need of safety help keeping a close eye on him. His versatility, range, and playmaking ability make him a strong fit for teams like the Dallas Cowboys, Pittsburgh Steelers, or even the Philadelphia Eagles — all of whom could benefit from adding a dynamic presence in the secondary.
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One intriguing landing spot for Starks could be at No. 17 overall, where the Cincinnati Bengals are slated to pick. With their secondary in need of a playmaker on the back end, Starks could provide immediate impact as a rangy, instinctive safety who can cover sideline to sideline.
Another exciting scenario would see Starks landing with the Washington Commanders, pairing up with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels to help anchor both sides of the ball for a franchise in full rebuild mode. The Commanders could look to trade back into the late first round or target Starks early in the second, depending on how the board falls.
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