Malaki Starks, a versatile safety for the Baltimore Ravens, is poised for a breakout season in 2026, according to defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver. Starks, a former first-round pick, has shown the ability to line up at multiple positions in the secondary, demonstrating his capability to cover a wide range of responsibilities on the field.
As the Ravens prepare for the upcoming season, Weaver has noted that Starks’ development may hinge more on his confidence than on his inherent talent. Speaking to the media, Weaver emphasized the significance of Starks’ comfort level within the Ravens’ defensive scheme. He stated, "Just the confidence... Confidence schematically in what we are trying to do [and] what we are trying to accomplish from a coverage standpoint." This sentiment reflects the belief that a player's mental state can significantly influence their performance.
Weaver pointed out that Starks possesses the skill set necessary to excel in various roles, having logged considerable snaps in the slot during his college career. His impressive range allows him to make plays from different areas on the field, a trait that could be pivotal for the Ravens' defense. "The kid's traits are truly like, you can play [Malaki Starks] all over the place. He played a ton of nickel in college; you can do that with him now. He can be on one hash and make a play on the other side of the field," Weaver explained.
The defensive coordinator believes that Starks’ familiarity with the defensive system will enable him to showcase his abilities more consistently this season. Many young players struggle to balance their athleticism with the mental demands of learning a complex professional defense, and Weaver highlighted that this can sometimes lead to hesitation on the field. He remarked, "I think your first year, just when you are trying to learn it all, you can have a little bit of paralysis through analysis."
In the high-stakes environment of the NFL, even a moment of hesitation can be the difference between making a crucial play and arriving too late. Weaver is optimistic that Starks' second-year growth will enhance the Ravens' secondary, especially when paired with the contributions of fellow safety Kyle Hamilton. He anticipates that a more confident Starks will play faster, trust his instincts, and ultimately be more involved in the game. "We expect him to be closer to the ball and then ultimately make those plays this year," Weaver stated.
The Ravens are already aware of Starks’ physical capabilities, and if Weaver's insights hold true, an increase in confidence could unlock a new level of production for the team’s secondary. As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on Starks to see how he translates his potential into impactful performances on the field.
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