You can't teach size.

That's the old saying--and height-wise, it's true. But when it comes to bulk, those who start earliest in the weight room and work hardest over the summer have the most potential to contribute in the fall--a message U-M coaches try to convey to returnees and incoming freshmen alike.

Freshman tight end-to-be Kevin Murphy is one who is looking to make the most of his opportunity. With the tight end position unsettled this fall, Murphy was asked to prepare as though he'd be battling for playing time.

So far, he's doing his part. He recently gave up track to spend more time in the weight room (two hours a day), and runs a mile a day. Using a workout recommended by Michigan coaches, Murphy has added ten pounds to his frame since the end of basketball season.

"I’m up to 235 after dipping to 225 during basketball season--that's when I always lose weight," said Murphy, who measures in at 6-6. "The coaches directed me to a workout on the Internet, and it's really paid off so far."

Terry Malone, who recruited Murphy out of Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central, was recently heard raving about Murphy's potential and work ethic. Likewise, the Murphys said they've been continually impressed with Malone's style, both during the recruiting process and since. Murphy last spoke with his future position coach at the April 13 spring scrimmage.

"(Malone) and the other coaches told me to work hard, to work like I'm going to have a chance to play," said Murphy. "I knew going in (to the recruiting process) that soon, there's going to be a need (at tight end). I'm just going to keep working at it."

Versatile for his size, Murphy proved it this winter in helping lead the Forest Hills basketball team to a regional basketball title, averaging over 12 points and seven rebounds per game. The Rangers held a three-point lead in the final minute of a quarterfinal contest with Saginaw before Florida-bound Anthony Roberson scored ten consecutive points to seal a Saginaw victory.

"He was unbelievable," said Murphy. "I guess he decided he needed to start playing."

Murphy added that the nice tournament run took some of the sting off a winless senior football season.

"It was a tough year…it was a combination of things," said Murphy. "We had a new coach, a new offense, a lot of guys hurt, and we weren't very big. The seniors probably didn't do a good enough job hitting the weights."

Murphy knows he won't encounter the same problems at U-M. He plans to spend at least a few weeks on campus this summer to work out following his June orientation. Come fall, he's hoping to room with Brian Thompson, with whom he's kept in touch since the two became friends during the recruiting process--and said he's looking forward to life in Ann Arbor.

"I've heard it's a great town," said Murphy. "I'm looking forward to getting there."