Malik Hooker

Malik Hooker is a professional American football player who serves as a safety for the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL. Born on April 2, 1996, in New Castle, Pennsylvania, Hooker developed his skills early at New Castle High School. He later went on to play college football at Ohio State University, where he made a significant impact with his defensive skills. Hooker entered the NFL when he was selected by the Indianapolis Colts as the 15th overall pick in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft. His rookie year marked the beginning of a promising professional career. Over the years, Hooker has become known for his defensive prowess, particularly in pass defense and tackling. Throughout his career, Hooker has demonstrated consistency in his playing style. As of the 2025 NFL season, he recorded 52 combined tackles, 28 personal tackles, and 24 assists over 12 games, showcasing his ability to be a formidable presence in the defensive backfield. Despite not having any interceptions in that period, his contributions remain vital to his team’s defensive strategies. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing 212 pounds, Hooker combines size and agility, making him a reliable safety. His career has been shaped by his tenure with both the Colts and Cowboys, earning him respect in the league for his dedication to the sport. His journey from Ohio State to the NFL underscores his strong foundational skills and adaptability on the field.