If the key to a solid defense is experience, then West Virginia could be looking to be in decent shape in 2015. The Mountaineers was already looking to return eight starters on defense in 2015 after seeing some improved play in 2014. That returning total went up one with the news that safety Karl Joseph will return to Morgantown for one final year in the blue and gold.
Joseph was one of many players around the country to seek feedback from the NFL’s draft advisory board before making a final decision on his playing future. It would seem that feedback led Joseph to believe another year in college would be the best bet before turning pro. He had informed his teammates of his decision in the days following West Virginia’s loss to Texas A&M in the Liberty Bowl.
Joseph was a second-team All-Big 12 player this season. He was second on the Mountaineers in tackles with 90 total (60 solo, 30 assisted). With Joseph back in the mix in the defensive backfield, West Virginia is slated to return all five starters, according to a report by Charleston Daily Mail.