Minter shared the prediction on ESPN’s This Is Football podcast with Kevin Clark, stating, “I think Malaki Starks is going to become a household type of name in the secondary.” He also highlighted second-year edge rusher Mike Green as a player who could take a big step, signaling confidence in the defense’s youth.
The praise comes with Starks operating in a unit headlined by All-Pro Kyle Hamilton. Baltimore has invested heavily at safety, with Hamilton last offseason becoming the highest-paid at his position and the addition of Jaylinn Hawkins in free agency, underscoring the talent already in place alongside Starks.
Starks showed flashes as a rookie but is still developing. He posted just two interceptions and four passes defended in 2025, and Minter’s high expectations point to a bigger role and more production. His versatility—paired with the defense’s growing depth—adds intrigue to how he’ll be deployed in the coming season.
Looking ahead to the 2026 draft, Minter’s remarks align with a broader strategy for the Ravens. While there could be offensive adjustments, including wideout or line help, the emphasis on Starks and Green suggests Baltimore plans to build from a strengthened defense while remaining open to a game-breaking addition on offense if the right value appears.