When a team has a player who is projected to be a first-round pick like All-SEC cornerback Kelee Ringo, for example, the opponent will often target the other side of the field. But in the case of the Georgia Bulldogs football team, their other defensive backs are exceptional too, and one of the best is Malaki Starks. Following his step into national recognition after a jaw-dropping interception during the first week of the season, Starks has become one of the premier defensive back talents in all college football…as a true freshman no less.
Related: Rate The University of Georgia – Athens
Although it is uncommon for a true first-year student to start college football, the SEC Malaki Starks did not go from anonymity to stardom. A consensus 5-star prospect ranked as the #1 athlete nationally by 24/7 Sports, Starks was dominant at Jefferson High School, leading his team to playoffs during his senior season. Playing on both sides of the ball, Malaki racked up 303 yards and five touchdowns, along with 13 tackles and two interceptions. As seen on film, Starks is a burner posting a 10.55 100-meter dash and winning a state title in the long jump with a 23-7.
Related: Rate your Coaches, Facilities, and Campus Visits
In early November, Starks had his hands full against an offense of elite playmakers when Georgia took on the then-#1 ranked Tennsee Volunteers. Even so, Starks racked up double-digit tackles and a pass breakup against the vaunted Vols to boost the Bulldogs back into first place. On top of a stellar performance, he was named SEC Co-Freshman of the Week. To cap off an extraordinary true freshman campaign, Starks and the Georgia Bulldogs are national champions after a trouncing of TCU 65-7. It should be a surprise to nobody that once Starks becomes eligible for the NFL Draft, he will be a first-round pick.
Follow Malaki Starks on Instagram @mstarks24 and on Twitter @StarksMalaki
Know an athlete you want to recognize? Email us at [email protected]
Image Credit: Georgia Athletics
* Originally published on January 13, 2023, by William Calhoun
