One of the quickest ways for young NFL players to improve is by learning from people who have already experienced success at the highest level. Baltimore Ravens safety Malaki Starks appears to understand that as well as anyone.
The former first-round draft pick is entering a pivotal second season after showing flashes throughout his rookie campaign. With training camp approaching, he is looking for every possible advantage, including reconnecting with a former Super Bowl-winning head coach who helped prepare him for the NFL Draft.
That coach is Jon Gruden. Speaking recently with The Athletic's Jeff Zrebiec, Starks revealed that Gruden remains a trusted resource, and Starks plans to spend more time with Gruden before the season begins.
"I'm going to get back with Jon Gruden... I trained with him before the draft, so I'm going to get back with him and pick his brain a little bit... I trained with him for the draft. He prepped me for the draft, and we've been really cool ever since. Just to learn from a guy like him and have him as a resource, I think it will be huge."
At first glance, Gruden may seem like an unusual mentor for a young safety. He is more so known for his offensive acumen, but that may be the point, another perspective. That may be exactly what makes him such a valuable resource for Starks.