The Indianapolis Colts find themselves at a pivotal moment in their franchise’s trajectory. Head coach Shane Steichen enters his third season with a 17-17 record (9-8 in 2023, 8-9 in 2024) but has yet to secure a playoff berth or division title with quarterback Anthony Richardson.
Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, many believe the Colts’ top priority in the first round should be addressing the tight end position. However, their needs extend beyond just the offense. Depending on perspective, the team’s most pressing issue might actually be in the secondary, with both safety and cornerback standing out as key areas of concern.
In a recent mock draft from the Senior Bowl practice in Mobile, Alabama, Pro Football Focus made a surprising choice, opting to pass on standout college tight end Tyler Warren in favor of dynamic safety Malaki Starks. This decision raised eyebrows, considering how underwhelming the Colts’ tight ends were in 2024. The four active players at the position combined for just 39 receptions, 467 yards, and two touchdowns. While other tight end prospects emerged at the Senior Bowl, such as LSU’s Mason Thomas and Miami’s Elijah Arroyo, they aren’t considered first-round talents like Warren, Bowling Green’s Harold Fannin Jr., or Michigan’s Colston Loveland.
https://twitter.com/scoutdnfl/status/1880454313421729837?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1880454313421729837%7Ctwgr%5Ed2a6aadd1ccab456569c66fb5fed5e35abad095c%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.si.com%2Fnfl%2Fcolts%2Fnews%2Fcolts-wild-prediction-pff-nfl-draft-2025
Turning back to Starks, his potential impact on Indianapolis’ defense could be significant under new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo. Starks is known for his strong run defense (graded 85.6 by PFF) and impressive ball skills. Anarumo could deploy him beyond a traditional free safety role to complement Nick Cross. While Starks didn’t quite match his usual production last season, he remains one of the top safeties in the draft. His three-year career at Georgia showcased consistency, with 43 games played, 197 tackles, 17 pass breakups, six interceptions, and an All-American selection in 2023.
Like any rookie, Starks will need to adjust to the speed of the NFL. However, with Julian Blackmon unlikely to return due to his injury history, the Colts are almost certain to target a safety at some point in the draft.
If PFF’s mock draft proves accurate, some Colts fans may be disappointed, particularly those hoping to see Richardson paired with an elite tight end. But even if Richardson thrives, it won’t mean much if the defense can’t stop opposing quarterbacks. Starks would be a strong pick, even if Warren or Loveland remain available. While not the flashiest choice, his talent and potential make him a worthwhile selection, even if it sparks initial frustration from fans.
Ultimately, general manager Chris Ballard’s draft decisions could shape the Colts’ long-term trajectory. With safety depth a pressing need, Starks stands out as one of the best options in this year’s class.
Leave a Reply