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.
Related News
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers WR Ricky Pearsall's future in doubt after 2027 NFL mock draft
Cameron Sheath of Pro Football and Sports Network released an early projection of the 2027 NFL Draft, and his mock draft could spell trouble for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall. In his projection, Sheath has the 49ers selecting Arizona State wide receiver... -
49ers training camp: Shanahan ramps up for preseason, Purdy throws two pick-sixes
The San Francisco 49ers held their ninth full training camp practice on Saturday as they continued preparations for the 2026 NFL season. The biggest 49ers-related news coming out of Santa Clara was head coach Kyle Shanahan surprising everyone by speaking to reporters. It was... -
WR De'Zhaun Stribling's preseason debut shows 49ers may have themselves a gem
Less than four months ago, the San Francisco 49ers were getting plenty of heat over their decision to select wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling with the first overall selection in the second round of the NFL Draft. Now it seems like there's a real possibility Stribling could make... -
Kyle Shanahan, Brock Purdy share updates after 49ers-Titans joint practice
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan and quarterback Brock Purdy spoke with reporters after Tuesday's joint practice with the Tennessee Titans. Here's everything they had to say. Transcripts provided by the San Francisco 49ers Communications staff. Head Coach Kyle...