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Malaki Starks experienced a mix of excitement and pressure on draft night.
Being among the early selections can be exhilarating, yet it often leads to joining a less competitive team. While Starks did not make the top-20 cut, he was still called during the first round, securing a spot with a contender aiming for the Super Bowl.
Selected by the Baltimore Ravens with the 27th pick, Starks joins a team that recently competed in the AFC Championship and is eager to return to that level of success this season.
High Hopes for the Ravens
The expectations are high for Baltimore this year, especially with MVP candidate Lamar Jackson leading the charge.
Transitioning from college football to the NFL presents many challenges. While the difference in athletic skill is evident, Starks indicated that he faces another significant issue.
“There are a lot of rules that are a lot different than it is in college,” Starks shared in an interview. “The dimensions, I’m still used to the hash marks being farther in. I spent time after practices walking through my steps because I’m so programmed to go to a certain spot. Just really relearning all the rules and dimensions is a big part of the adjustment.”
Learning Under Experienced Players
Despite these challenges, Starks feels fortunate to have a strong support system.
Having played for Georgia—a powerhouse in college football—Starks has a history of winning, which provides him a solid foundation.
Ahead of the draft, he participated in a unique event called the Laundry Games, showcasing his off-field activities with Tide and fellow draftee Matthew Golden.
“We did this thing where you had a laundry basket on your head and had to balance it while walking back and forth. Matthew couldn’t do it, so I got to tease him about it,” Starks remarked, highlighting the camaraderie built through these experiences.
“People think prep starts on the field, but it actually starts in the laundry room. You feel good when you look good,” he added, hinting at the importance of confidence in sports.
Embracing the Raven’s Culture
The pressure to perform is palpable for Starks as he adapts to life as a Raven. However, his time at the University of Georgia has prepared him well for such expectations.
“It’s kind of what I’m used to since I went to the University of Georgia,” he explained. “They were just off their first national championship in a long time, so coming in and filling those shoes is part of the standard that the organization upholds.”
Starks expressed his eagerness to join the Ravens and learn what it means to embody the team’s culture.
“I’m excited to come into this organization and learn from a lot of the older guys. It’s all about understanding what it means to play like a Raven,” he concluded, reflecting his commitment to integrating into the team.
Looking Ahead
As the NFL season approaches, Starks stands at a crucial juncture in his career. With hard work and guidance from his teammates, he aims to navigate the complexities of professional football successfully. His story serves as a reminder of the challenges rookies face transitioning from college to the pros.
From adjusting to new rules to embracing team culture, Starks embodies the determination required to succeed at the highest level of the sport.
In every game he plays, Starks will carry with him the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the pride of representing both Georgia and Baltimore as he strives for excellence on the field.
