— Georgia Bulldogs standout safety Malaki Starks is no stranger to delivering big hits and game-changing plays on the field. But off the field, it’s a different kind of strength that’s been shaping the rising football star — the quiet, unwavering support of his fiancée, Savanna Jackson.
In an exclusive interview this week, Starks opened up for the first time about their love story, one that began not under the Friday night lights or during a headline-grabbing moment, but through simple, authentic connection.
“She wasn’t loud, she was real,” Starks said, reflecting on their first encounter during his sophomore year at Georgia. “In a world full of noise, she was peace. I didn’t even know I needed that until she showed up.”
Now engaged and planning a March 2026 wedding, the couple has grown into a power duo that balances ambition with grounding. Jackson, a nursing student with a passion for community outreach, has been Starks’ anchor amid the highs and lows of collegiate stardom.
“She never cared about the hype,” Starks continued. “She cared about me — the version of me that’s just Malaki, not the one in headlines. That’s rare.”
The connection has blossomed into something deeper, fueling Starks both emotionally and professionally. As he prepares for a pivotal season that could shape his NFL future, Starks says it’s Jackson who keeps him mentally ready.
“When the pressure builds, she reminds me of who I am and why I started. She brings that perspective I need — to love the game, but also to live with purpose.”
Teammates and coaches have noticed the growth.
“Malaki’s always been talented,” head coach Kirby Smart commented. “But now there’s a maturity in him that comes from something personal. You can tell he’s playing with heart — not just for the team, but for something bigger.”
Fans are rallying behind the couple, with social media flooded with admiration for their love story. Many call it “refreshing” to see a young athlete so open about emotional vulnerability and commitment.
With a wedding in the works and the NFL Draft on the horizon, 2026 is shaping up to be a monumental year for Starks — one defined by love, legacy, and leadership.
“She’s my forever,” he said, smiling. “And that’s the real win.”
