MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Edward Vesterinen was set for his third season of extensive action along West Virginia’s defensive line last year.

A native of Helinski, Finland, Vesterinen played 112 defensive snaps over eight games as a true freshman, more than doubled his snap count to 242 on defense as a sophomore and started all 13 contests at defensive tackle in 2023.

In the second game of what had the potential to be a breakout 2024 campaign for Vesterinen, the veteran suffered a season-ending leg injury.

“Not being able to be there when your team needs you and when your teammates are running out the tunnel and you’re not there,” Vesterinen said, nothing frustration as a result of the injury. “I learned a lot about myself during that time and I’ve grown a lot since then.”

Having opted to rem

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