Malaki Starks Shines at NFL Combine, Catching Bengals’ Attention
Georgia safety Malaki Starks made waves at the 2025 NFL Combine, showcasing his exceptional skills and speed that set him apart from his peers. His impressive performance included recording the fastest top speed among safeties in five different drills, as confirmed by NFL Next Gen Stats. Starks’ remarkable speeds of 15.24 mph in the short shuttle, 17.92 mph in the wave drill, 18.39 mph in the gauntlet drill, 18.66 mph in the line drill, and 18.74 mph in the Teryl Austin drill solidified his position as a top safety prospect in this year’s draft class.
The Bengals took notice of Starks’ standout abilities, meeting with him in Indianapolis during the Combine. With the departure of Jesse Bates in free agency after the 2022 season, the Bengals are in dire need of a defensive anchor in the secondary. Starks’ potential as a game-changer on defense has put him squarely in the Bengals’ sights, potentially as the 17th overall pick in the upcoming draft.
High Praise for Malaki Starks
NFL draft experts such as Dane Brugler and Lance Zierlein have lauded Starks for his versatility and impact on the field. Zierlein highlighted Starks’ three-year starting experience in high-pressure games, emphasizing his ability to eliminate contested catches and excel in deep coverage. While noting areas for improvement in Starks’ game, Zierlein praised his speed, ball skills, and potential to become a future starter at the NFL level.
Starks’ impressive resume and skill set align closely with what the Bengals are seeking in their defensive backfield. Head coach Zac Taylor emphasized the importance of communication and tackling ability in safeties, traits that Starks has demonstrated throughout his collegiate career. The Bengals’ interest in Starks is further bolstered by his track record of performing in big games, making him a natural fit for a team looking to bolster its defense.
Georgia Connection and Bengals’ Defensive Revamp
The Bengals have a history of tapping into the talent pool at the University of Georgia, with Starks potentially continuing that trend in this year’s draft. Given the abundance of skilled Bulldogs in the 2025 draft class, the Bengals may look to leverage their Georgia connection once again by selecting Starks to fortify their defense.
Starks’ remarkable speed and agility in Combine drills have not gone unnoticed by onlookers and analysts. His fluid movements, quick transitions, and overall athleticism have drawn comparisons to a feline grace, showcasing his natural talent and potential to excel at the next level. As the Bengals seek to address their defensive shortcomings and solidify their secondary, Starks emerges as a prime candidate to anchor their defense and usher in a new era post-Jesse Bates.