Expectations were high for Malaki Starks' rookie season. The Baltimore Ravens drafting him in the first-round while having arguably the league's best safety in Kyle Hamilton was certainly a massive vote of confidence in Starks. It's unfair to say that Starks was a disappointment in his rookie season, but he certainly left fans wanting more.
During the Ravens' OTAs, Starks openly admitted that he has another level to reach and honestly reflected on his rookie season. Â
"How I played last season was okay, but it's not the standard I set for myself. I know I can play at a higher level," Starks said.Â
It might not have been a perfect rookie year for Starks, but he showcased plenty of promise, and Jesse Minter's system should help him reach another level. Undoubtedly, Starks' comments are just another reason to believe in a massive second-year leap, as this proves he has the right mentality in addition to the talent needed to level up.
Malaki Starks is poised for a breakout season
Starks led the team in snaps and showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie season, including back-to-back interceptions in Weeks 9 and 10. Generally speaking, Starks' IQ and playmaking stood out last year. It's fair to expect that Starks will only get sharper in these areas in his sophomore season, and he could become a truly disruptive force in a Ravens' defense that's projected to improve immensely.Â
Nevertheless, Starks had some rookie hiccups, especially at the beginning of the season. His 67.9 PFF grade ranked him as slightly above average among safeties, and he gave up 16.9 yards per completion.
This isn't a knock on Starks; instead, it just evidence that there's room for him to improve, especially in coverage.
It's unreasonable to expect a rookie to be perfect, though, especially given Zach Orr's subpar defensive schemes. Not only should Starks improve with another year of development, but Minter's elite schemes should help him elevate to the level that fans know he can reach.
Minter is used to utilizing multiple safeties from his time with the Los Angeles Chargers, which bodes well for Starks.
Hamilton and free agent addition Jaylinn Hawkins should alleviate some pressure from Starks. To be clear, he will still be a vital part of Baltimore's defense, but he has the support around him from both the coaching staff and players needed for him to thrive.
Frankly, I find it hard not to buy into Starks this season, and his comments should only give more confidence that a breakout season is on the way.Â
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