Safety obviously not a top draft priority for Lions, but there's BPA potential on Day 2 with 2025 prospects
Continuing our film-based introduction to the 2025 draft class ahead of the scouting combine at the end of this month, we're evaluating the best safeties in the class; a group top analysts project will be selected in the first three rounds.
As a reminder, the prospects will be sorted into three categories — top of the board, first-round talent and Day 2 options — and listed alphabetically within the tiers.
Top of the board suggests the player is projected to be selected in the top half of the first round. The Lions are scheduled to pick No. 28. The remaining first-round options aren't necessarily expected to be available at that spot, but they could fall within a range where the Lions could reasonably trade up to snag a specific target.
I'll include some summarizing thoughts about this group of prospects and how they relate to Detroit's roster needs at the end of this post, after the individual scouting reports.
Top of the board
Malaki Starks, Georgia
Listed height/weight: 6-foot-1, 205 pounds
2024 stats: 14 games, 77 tackles, one interception (six since 2022)
A dynamic, versatile defensive back, Starks splits his time between the box, slot, and as a deep safety. He often aligns as a split deep safety where he'll drift into various deep-zone responsibilities, mixed with some underneath assignments. He demonstrates a good feel for his zone. He's got excellent range, with impressive acceleration to close a throwing window or offer over-the-top support.
He thrives in man coverage, especially when asked to flip his hips and run with a vertical route. He didn't get many opportunities to make plays on the ball in 2024, but delivered a leaping, full-extension interception in man-to-man coverage downfield against Clemson.
Starks reads and reacts quickly to short throws to the perimeter, triggering with urgency to limit yards after the catch. Overall, he's a sure-tackler. If there's a weakness in his game, it's getting stuck on second-level blockers, especially in the box. He looks average at times in run support, which is inconsistent with his frame and athleticism.
First-round talent
Nick Emmanwori, South Carolina
Listed height/weight: 6-foot-3, 227 pounds
2024 stats: 13 games, 88 tackles, four interceptions
Emmanwori possesses tremendous physical gifts, both in size and athleticism. Regardless, he has some of the least urgent tape I've watched doing this project, regardless of position.
With deeper responsibilities, he offers exceptional range. He effortlessly glides across the field, like he did during the opening defensive snap against Oklahoma, undercutting a deep crossing pattern for an interception.