West Virginia’s Edward Vesterinen Embraces Final Season with Mountaineers

West Virginia Mountaineers defensive lineman Edward Vesterinen is gearing up for his final season with the team, reflecting on his journey from Finland to the United States and his growth both on and off the field.

Vesterinen, who was discovered by West Virginia defensive coordinator Jordan Lesley through social media clips, has come a long way since his arrival in America. Admitting that his initial expectations were based on Hollywood movies, Vesterinen has embraced American culture and become a key player on the Mountaineers’ defense.

Last season, Vesterinen made significant contributions to the team, recording 28 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, and three sacks. However, he believes his best football is still ahead of him, attributing his improvement to a deeper understanding of the game and his role within the team.

As a senior leader on the defensive line, Vesterinen has taken on a new role of mentoring his teammates and enforcing team values. Despite his success on the field, Vesterinen remains focused on the bigger picture, valuing team success over individual statistics.

Looking ahead to his future after college football, Vesterinen is considering both continuing his football career and utilizing his business degree. With a passion for the sport and a desire to make the most of his time at West Virginia, Vesterinen is prepared for whatever comes next.

As Vesterinen prepares for his final season with the Mountaineers, he is determined to make the most of every opportunity and savor the friendships and memories that come with playing for his school. With a renewed energy and a wealth of experience, Vesterinen is poised to leave a lasting impact on the West Virginia football program.