The Atlanta Falcons are looking to bolster their secondary ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft, especially with uncertainties surrounding safety Justin Simmons and nickel cornerback Dee Alford's statuses. In a recent mock draft by Pro Football Focus, Georgia safety Malaki Starks is projected as a top pick for the Falcons at 15th overall. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has praised Starks for his intelligence, versatility, and instinct on the field, even labeling him as the safest choice in the draft. With his impressive stats from a dominant Georgia defense, including six interceptions over three seasons, Starks could potentially step into a starting role immediately.

Starks, who operates effectively as both a free safety and has shown versatility by playing in the box and the slot, could be the perfect complement to Jesse Bates III in the Falcons' defensive scheme. As Atlanta aims to fortify its defense, fans are eager to see if the team will finally draft a Georgia player in the first round, a long-anticipated move that could reshape their secondary.