The University of Hawai'i football team's defense will receive a boost today, the first day the Warriors' active roster is allowed to expand.

NCAA rules limit Division I-A football teams to a roster of 105 until the first day of a school's fall semester. There is no NCAA limit after that, although UH restricts its roster to 114 because of locker space.

At least eight players will join UH today — a ninth if cornerback Keenan Jones is cleared — and all but two are defensive players.

"I won't believe it until I see it," defensive coordinator Jerry Glanville told a reporter. "Talk to me after practice."

The additions are cornerbacks Ryan Keomaka, Keao Monteilh and Ryan Perry; linebackers Chris Williams and Sebastian Siaki; defensive lineman Nate Russell; and running backs Jazen Anderson and Alonzo Chopp.

Anderson was in training camp for a week before announcing he was leaving the team. Four days later, he changed his decision, although he was not allowed to rejoin until the start of the fall semester.

"I should be OK," Anderson said. "We haven't changed any plays around."

Anderson said he spoke to several teammates about his "temporary insanity" in leaving, and plans to address the issue with the entire team today. "They might not know everything, and I want to explain things," said Anderson, the younger brother of former All-Pro running back Jamal Anderson.

In accordance with NCAA transfer rules, Perry, who played at Sacramento State last year, must redshirt this season. Perry is the son of former All-Pro cornerback Rod Perry.

"I don't mind," said Perry, who wants to improve his strength. "I'm going to work hard on the scout team and try to help make our team better."

Perry, who is 5 feet 9, has gained 23 pounds this summer, and now weighs 174. "I have a year to hit my goal weight of 185," he said.

Keomaka and Monteilh were part-time starters last season. Because of academic concerns, they were dismissed from the team right before the start of spring practice in March.

But both returned to good academic standing, and were invited to rejoin.

"I'm in great shape," Keomaka said. "I've been working out all summer."

So, too, has Monteilh, whose difficulties could be traced to appendicitis suffered during final-exam week last December. His grades spiraled while he was recovering.

At the end of the spring semester, UH did not renew Monteilh's scholarship. He was told he could win back the scholarship in January if he continues to receive good grades.

As part of today's orientation, the newcomers must run the "220s" — 10 sprints of 220 yards, with maximum-lap times and rest breaks set according to a player's position.

Players who had perfect attendance at strength coach Mel deLaura's summer conditioning program are required to run six sprints. Keomaka, Monteilh and Williams were among the 40 to participate in every summer workout.

UH coach June Jones said the missed practice time will hinder the new additions in their quest to make the 60-player travel roster for the Sept. 2. season against Alabama.

The one exception is Keenan Jones, who is a natural fit for the Warriors' revised bump-and-run defensive coverages. June Jones is not permitted to discuss Keenan Jones.

Two weeks ago, Keenan Jones earned enough credits for an associate degree, his requirement for playing for the Warriors this season.

But UH still has not certified Jones' final report card from summer school on the Mainland.

Jones has been in Hawai'i for nine days, but has not been allowed to practice or attend meetings. He is living with friends.

Jones said he is hopeful he will be cleared today.

Reach Stephen Tsai at stsai@honoluluadvertiser.com.