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NFL Draft 2014: Ravens take Florida State free safety Terrence Brooks with the 79th overall pick

The Ravens selected FSU free safety Terrence Brooks with its first third-round pick.

Grant Halverson

Who said Ozzie Newsome only favored Alabama players?

For the second time Friday night, the Ravens went with a player from Florida State, the defending NCAA national champions. After taking defensive tackle Timmy Jernigan in the second round, the Ravens took teammate Terrence Brooks, the Seminoles' free safety.

Brooks possesses a lot of speed and range, making him an ideal center fielder for the Ravens' defense. If Brooks is able to win the starting free safety job as a rookie, then that should allow Matt Elam to move back to his natural position at strong safety. Of course, Jeromy Miles and Darian Stewart should be in the mix, too.

The Ravens have yet to take an offensive player in the draft at this point, which is ironic considering offensive tackle, receiver and tight end have been perceived as major needs all offseason. At this point, the Ravens aren't likely to get an immediate contributor at any of those positions.

At the same time, the Ravens' philosophy has long been to win with defense. These first three picks bolster that side of the ball considerably.

But is it coming at the cost of the offense?