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 rookies had worn the number 18 during their collegiate careers—Harrison Jr. with the Ohio State Buckeyes and Ojulari with the LSU Tigers.
For Ojulari, the number 18 carried substantial weight. Awarded to him in his final season at LSU, it represented more than just a number. It signified a highly coveted honor given to the best all-around player, recognized for their character, academics, and leadership. When Ojulari donned the number 18, LSU triumphed in securing the SEC Western Division title. "It meant everything to me. It was really important to me," Ojulari said, emphasizing the personal significance of the number.
Interestingly, this wasn't the first time Ojulari and Harrison Jr. found themselves on opposite sides. In high school, they had played against each other in 2019, with Ojulari representing Marietta High School and Harrison Jr. suiting up for St. Joseph's Prep. Fast forward a few years, and their destiny intertwined again, this time in the professional realm.
Ojulari and Harrison Jr. initiated a thoughtful dialogue over text and phone to address the jersey number dilemma. The conversations were candid and respectful, reflecting the mutual regard each had for the other's journey. "We was just chopping it up. We got to talking about the number," Ojulari explained. "It wasn’t a hard decision." Demonstrating a level of selflessness and team-first mentality, Ojulari decided to relinquish the number 18 jersey for Harrison Jr.
Harrison Jr. expressed gratitude for Ojulari's decision. "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," said Harrison Jr., acknowledging the significance behind the number and Ojulari's generosity.
The transition of number 18 from Ojulari to Harrison Jr. was made without any monetary compensation, a testament to the respect and camaraderie prevalent between the two young athletes. Ojulari has since opted for the number 9 jersey. In reflecting upon the switch, he highlighted his commitment to the team while also cherishing the memories associated with his previous 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 shared.
Ojulari’s willingness to hand over the number symbolized more than just a change in digits. It underscored his understanding of the larger picture and his readiness to put the team’s interests above personal accolades. "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 remarked.
As the Cardinals gear up for the upcoming season, both players will undoubtedly bring their unique strengths and unwavering dedication to the team. Harrison Jr. will carry forward the legacy of the number 18 jersey, while Ojulari, now wearing number 9, will continue to exemplify the leadership and character traits that defined his tenure at LSU. The professionalism and respect displayed by these athletes set a positive tone for their future contributions to the team.