About two weeks after Marvin Harrison Jr. was selected fourth overall by the Arizona Cardinals at the NFL draft, BJ Ojulari received an unexpected message from Arizona's equipment manager, Jeff Schwimmer, detailing a potential conflict over jersey numbers. Both Harrison Jr. and Ojulari had worn the number 18 during their respective collegiate careers—Harrison Jr. with the Ohio State Buckeyes and Ojulari with the LSU Tigers.
A Coveted Number
During his final season at LSU, Ojulari was awarded the number 18, a highly coveted honor bestowed upon the best all-around player for their character, academics, and leadership traits. When Ojulari wore number 18, LSU won the SEC Western Division title, highlighting his significant contribution to the team's success. It was a number that carried deep meaning and embodied a legacy Ojulari was proud of.
“It meant everything to me. It was really important to me,” said Ojulari, emphasizing the personal significance of wearing the number.
Early Encounters
Interestingly, Ojulari and Harrison Jr. were no strangers to each other. Their paths had crossed years earlier in high school. In 2019, they faced off on the field, with Ojulari representing Marietta High School and Harrison Jr. suiting up for St. Joseph's Prep. This early encounter added an extra layer to their unfolding story in Arizona.
The Dilemma
The potential jersey number conflict brought Ojulari and Harrison Jr. into a dialogue over text and phone calls. Both players undoubtedly had strong feelings about the number 18, but their conversation was marked by mutual respect and camaraderie.
“We was just chopping it up. We got to talking about the number,” Ojulari shared, reflecting on how they navigated this delicate situation.
A Generous Gesture
In a gracious move, Ojulari decided to give up the number 18 jersey for Harrison Jr. The decision wasn't driven by any monetary exchange but rather a team-first attitude and a recognition of what would be best for their new beginning with the Cardinals. “It wasn’t a hard decision,” Ojulari stated, downplaying any potential internal conflict.
Ojulari’s new jersey number is 9, a fresh start that reflects his adaptability and team spirit.
Mutual Respect
Harrison Jr. was deeply appreciative of Ojulari’s decision and was quick to express his gratitude. “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,” Harrison Jr. said, acknowledging the weight of the gesture.
Ojulari’s decision was driven by more than just magnanimity. “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,” he explained, highlighting his focus on team success over individual accolades.
A Cherished Memory
The significance of the number wasn’t lost on Ojulari, even as he moved on to his new number. “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 reminisced, underscoring the lasting impact of his time at LSU and the honor of wearing number 18.
In the end, the resolution of the jersey number conflict between Ojulari and Harrison Jr. serves as a testament to their character, respect for each other, and commitment to their new team. As they prepare to take the field for the Arizona Cardinals, the mutual respect and team-first attitude they’ve displayed are sure to set a strong foundation for their professional careers.