Pro Football Network contributor Marco Enriquez released his latest mock draft, projecting the San Francisco 49ers to strengthen their defensive backfield with the 11th overall pick.
While most analysts predict the 49ers will target an offensive or defensive lineman—two of the team's most pressing offseason needs—Enriquez envisions a different strategy. He has general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan selecting Georgia defensive back Malaki Starks.
"The Niners' defense needs help in the secondary," Enriquez explained. "They can add one of the most versatile defensive backs in the class in Malaki Starks with their first pick in the draft."
Starks, primarily a safety in college, also has experience playing in the slot. His versatility could be precisely what Lynch and Shanahan are looking for, offering another weapon for returning defensive coordinator Robert Saleh.
In his final season with the Bulldogs, Starks recorded a career-high 77 tackles (four for a loss), along with one interception and three passes defensed in 14 games.
"Starks boasts impressive quickness and ball-hawking skills, as well as the frame and physicality to be an impact player in every phase of the game," Enriquez added. "His football IQ is also frequently on display when diagnosing play concepts."
The 2025 NFL Draft begins on Thursday, April 24, at historic Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
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