West Virginia safety Karl Joseph, who leads the NCAA in interceptions, will miss the remainder of the season after a knee injury suffered in practice during a non-contract drill, the school confirmed.
"This has been difficult for me and my family but I know I will come through this stronger than ever," Joseph said in a statement, according to Allan Taylor of MetroNews. "I will forever be a Mountaineer and will be cheering on our team every step of the way."
Joseph is a senior who will now turn his attention toward the 2016 NFL Draft as he recovers. The specific nature of the injury remains unclear, along with whether Joseph's injury has a chance to be rehabilitated in time for the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis in late February.
West Virginia defensive coordinator Tony Gibson had high praise for Joseph's career via Twitter:
NFL Media draft analyst Chad Reuter rated Joseph as one of the top 80 prospects for the 2016 draft, a projection which would land him with a pick in the first three rounds. With a reputation as a big hitter from the safety position, Joseph was rated the most physical player in the nation by College Football 24/7. This season, however, Joseph has shown more in coverage than physical play. His five interceptions leads the NCAA, and he's also recorded a sack, a pass breakup and a fumble recovery in only four games.
Joseph (5-11, 197 pounds) made 42 career starts for the Mountaineers.
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