Minnesota Should Seize the Opportunity If Malaki Starks Slides in the Draft
The NFL Draft is always full of surprises, with top talents sometimes slipping past their expected selection range due to various reasons such as team needs, positional value, or even unfounded concerns from scouts. One such prospect who could find himself available later than anticipated is Georgia’s standout safety, Malaki Starks. If Starks experiences a slide on draft night, the Minnesota Vikings should waste no time in securing his services. The Vikings, in the midst of retooling their defense, would greatly benefit from his dynamic skill set, leadership, and game-changing ability in the secondary.
An Elite Playmaker in the Secondary
Malaki Starks has been a dominant force for the Georgia Bulldogs, showcasing an elite combination of size, speed, and football IQ. At 6-foot-1 and around 205 pounds, Starks possesses the ideal build for an NFL safety. His versatility allows him to excel in deep coverage, step into the box to stop the run, or match up against tight ends and slot receivers. His instincts and ball-hawking skills make him a turnover machine, something Minnesota desperately needs in its defensive backfield.
One of Starks’ biggest strengths is his range. His ability to track the ball in the air and make plays from sideline to sideline is reminiscent of some of the best safeties in the league. His closing speed ensures that he can disrupt plays even if initially beaten, and his tackling ability is solid enough to make an immediate impact. These attributes make him a fit for any defensive scheme, but particularly in a Vikings defense that needs a reliable last line of defense.
A Secondary in Need of a Game-Changer
The Vikings have struggled defensively in recent seasons, especially in pass coverage. Despite solid play from some of their defensive backs, Minnesota has lacked a true game-changer at the safety position since the prime years of Harrison Smith. While Smith remains a valuable veteran presence, adding a young, elite talent like Starks would help bridge the gap to the future and provide an immediate impact.
Minnesota’s defense ranked in the bottom half of the league in passing yards allowed last season, often getting burned on deep plays or failing to capitalize on turnover opportunities. Starks’ presence could help mitigate these issues by providing a reliable playmaker who can read quarterbacks, anticipate throws, and create takeaways. His physicality would also help shore up run support, an area where the Vikings’ secondary has struggled at times.
Potential Draft Scenarios
While Starks is widely regarded as a first-round talent, there are plausible scenarios where he could slip past the initial wave of selections. With quarterbacks, offensive tackles, and edge rushers often dominating the top of the draft board, defensive backs sometimes see an unexpected fall. If Starks isn’t selected in the first half of the opening round, the Vikings should strongly consider moving up or taking him if he remains available when they pick.
Minnesota currently has multiple needs, including quarterback and offensive line, but safety is a position that could provide tremendous long-term value. If the Vikings address their offensive needs through free agency or later in the draft, selecting Starks could be a franchise-altering decision. Pairing him with established veterans while allowing him to learn under one of the best in Harrison Smith could accelerate his development and solidify the Vikings’ secondary for years to come.
A Perfect Fit in Brian Flores’ Defense
Under defensive coordinator Brian Flores, the Vikings’ defense has emphasized aggression, versatility, and opportunistic play. Starks fits that mold perfectly. His ability to disguise coverages, blitz when needed, and be a factor in both man and zone schemes makes him an ideal player for Flores’ system.
In a defense that thrives on creating pressure and forcing turnovers, Starks would be the perfect addition to complement an improving defensive front. His ability to bait quarterbacks into poor decisions and react quickly to developing plays would elevate the entire secondary’s effectiveness. If Minnesota wants to create a defense that can compete against elite offenses in the NFC, securing a player of Starks’ caliber should be a priority.
Conclusion: A Potential Steal for Minnesota
If Malaki Starks unexpectedly slides in the draft, the Minnesota Vikings should seize the opportunity without hesitation. His elite athleticism, football intelligence, and versatility make him a dream addition to their defense. As they look to build a sustainable contender, adding a player with Starks’ ability could be the key to transforming their secondary from a liability to a strength.
While offensive positions may dominate the Vikings’ draft discussions, a defensive cornerstone like Starks could be too good to pass up. Whether it requires a small trade-up or simply a well-timed selection, Minnesota must be ready to capitalize if the opportunity arises. If they do, they may just land a future All-Pro who could redefine their defense for years to come.
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