About two weeks after Marvin Harrison Jr. was selected fourth overall by the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL draft, BJ Ojulari received a message that would test his principles and team spirit. Arizona’s equipment manager, Jeff Schwimmer, informed Ojulari about a potential conflict over jersey numbers, setting the stage for an unexpected dilemma.
Both players had worn the number 18 during their collegiate careers—Harrison Jr. with the Ohio State Buckeyes and Ojulari with the LSU Tigers. For Harrison Jr., the number was synonymous with his stellar play at Ohio State, but for Ojulari, it carried even deeper meaning. Awarded to the best all-around player for character, academics, and leadership traits, number 18 is one of the most coveted honors at LSU. During Ojulari's final season wearing number 18, LSU clinched the SEC Western Division title, marking a significant milestone in his college career.
The history between Ojulari and Harrison Jr. added another layer to the story. Back in 2019, they faced off in a high school showdown where Ojulari represented Marietta High School and Harrison Jr. played for St. Joseph's Prep. Now, as professional players on the same NFL team, they faced a new challenge: who would wear number 18?
Ojulari and Harrison Jr. initiated a dialogue over text and phone to resolve the jersey number conflict. According to Ojulari, "We was just chopping it up. We got to talking about the number." Recognizing the importance of the number to Harrison Jr., Ojulari made a selfless decision. “It wasn’t a hard decision,” he said. Ojulari chose to give up the number 18 jersey for Harrison Jr., maintaining the camaraderie and unity within the team.
This decision was not influenced by money or any other incentives—just mutual respect and an understanding of what the number meant to both players. "It meant everything to me. It was really important to me," Ojulari reflected. Harrison Jr. couldn't hide his appreciation, stating, "We had a great conversation. I can’t be more grateful and appreciative for him to allow me to get that number 18. I know it means a lot to him." The act of kindness emphasized Ojulari’s character and willingness to prioritize the team over individual accolades.
Embracing a new chapter in his professional career, Ojulari adopted a new jersey number: 9. Reflecting on his decision, he said, “He’s a great guy. I feel like he deserves it. He’s gonna be instrumental for us in the offensive strike. So, it was a no-brainer. The team comes first and whatever I can do to make us more successful, I’ll do.” This attitude highlights Ojulari’s dedication and team-first mentality, attributes that had earned him the number 18 jersey at LSU in the first place.
Even though Ojulari gave up the number 18, it’s evident that he still holds it in high regard. “It was such a blessing to have number 18, wearing number 18 my first year. I’m always gonna cherish that rookie jersey, just that number 18. So, it meant everything to me,” he shared, underscoring the emotional significance attached to that jersey number.
Ojulari’s willingness to accommodate his teammate, combined with his grace in facing this transition, set a powerful example for rookie and veteran players alike. The mutual respect and camaraderie between Ojulari and Harrison Jr. not only resolve a potential issue but also strengthen the team spirit that the Arizona Cardinals aim to foster as they prepare for the upcoming season.