Dr. Phillips football's Maliki Wright commits to Duke

Dr. Phillips football's Maliki Wright announced via his X account that he has committed to play his college ball for Duke.

The 6-foot, 190-pound three-star defensive back, was previously committed to USF but re-opened his recruitment toward the end of 2023. 

Wright chose the Blue Devils over the likes of other notable Power 4 programs like Iowa State, NC State, Missouri and Vanderbilt. 

First-year Duke coach Manny Diaz, a former defensive coordinator, can expect Wright to be a do-it-all DB. He was often deployed in both single-high and cover-two schemes at safety. 

Dr. Phillips coach Rodney Wells constantly moves the versatile, ultra-athletic and all-around defensive back all over the field. Wright has the aggression and size to load the box and make tackles, but he can also line up deep to use his speed and anticipation to break up the opponent’s passing game.

In 2023, Wright made 74 total tackles (four for a loss), caught two interceptions and had one sack during his 10 games.

Even expect Wright to play a bit on the offensive side as well this season.