Emerson Joy Switches Sports | WVU Football All 105

All 105 is a West Virginia Sports Now series profiling each member of the 2026 WVU Football Roster.

American Football and Canadian Football have a number of critical differences, including the number of downs, field size, goalpost location and the types of pre-snap motion allowed. Luckily for defensive lineman Emerson Joy, a transfer from Alberta College (Edmonton, Alberta) the role of the big guys up front remains largely the same: slow the running game, contain the quarterback, or pin one’s ears back to harass him.

Joy stands 6-foot-6 and weighs 253 pounds, a lanky junior who could turn into a legitimate problem on the outside if he can learn how to use his size to his advantage. He played sparingly last season, recording 5.5 tackles for loss and three sacks across eight regular season games played, and will now look to find a fit with the Mountaineers.

Added to the WVU Football roster following the spring practice period, the Mountaineers might’ve decided they needed to bolster their defensive line; they also might’ve loved Joy’s tape and potential.

92 • Emerson Joy, junior defensive lineman

Last Year: Joy played in the Great White North at Alberta College.

Stats: 20 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, three sacks and two forced fumbles in eight games played.

Post-Camp Outlook: Without a chance to get up to speed during the Mountaineers’ spring practice window, Joy will need a crash course in Zac Alley’s defense during summer and fall camps.

Projected Role: Joy is one of 16 players listed at defensive lineman on West Virginia’s roster. He might be a good candidate for a redshirt year as he adjusts to American Football, but don’t rule out a fast start if he impresses in practice.

Accolades, Highlights: Standing 6-foot-6, Joy also excelled on the basketball court during his time in high school. His transition from Canadian to American Football should make for an interesting storyline.

Coverage Links:

WVU Football Adds DL Emerson Joy Out of Canada to 2026 Roster