Kenyon Coleman has the imposing body of a reigning WWF champ and the hearty laugh of a man with few worries. Both come in handy when Coleman tries to sing "Grease," as he did during one forgettable karaoke outing with friends.

He is a philosophy major at UCLA, but only because the school does not offer religion as a major source of study. He favors the Bible over Descartes, de Conte or Aristotle.

Often, he thumbs to Proverbs 11:2. King Solomon: "With pride comes shame. But with humility comes wisdom."

"That's how I take things. I try to be humble," Coleman said. "King Solomon taught so much with his humility. God asked him what he wanted, and he said 'wisdom' so he could better serve his people. I admire him because he had humility.

"As a football player, you have a lot of praise, a lot of people telling you how great you are. But you have to remember that God's the one who blessed you with this ability. You have to praise the creator, not the created. That's why I try to be like King Solomon."

Coleman tries to remain humble as he creates havoc on the football field and makes a highly anticipated return this season.

He was lost for 2000 after the third game against Michigan, when his left knee locked as he swooped in for a tackle. It was a blessing, Coleman said, because in the ensuing surgery he also had two screws removed from just below the knee. Those were inserted early in Coleman's prep career to ensure proper bone growth.

He has been amazed at his improved flexibility and the fact that he's even faster now after adding 10 more pounds -- up to 286 -- on his 6-6 frame.

"He vertical jumps 36 inches, cleans 407 pounds and benches over 500," said new Bruins defensive coordinator Phil Snow. "He has all the tools. If Kenyon gets blocked, it's because he chooses to."

King Kenyon? The deep laugh follows.

"Even the coaches say I look quicker, that I'm faster and stronger," he said. "I'm just excited."

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