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 that would open a dialogue and test his team-first mentality. The message, sent by Arizona's equipment manager Jeff Schwimmer, relayed 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.
The number 18 wasn't just any jersey for BJ Ojulari. In his final season at LSU, Ojulari was awarded the number, a highly coveted honor bestowed upon the best all-around player for their character, academics, and leadership traits. Accolades followed him that season, as LSU clinched the SEC Western Division title, a testament to Ojulari's impact on and off the field. Reflecting on the number’s significance, Ojulari said, “It meant everything to me. It was really important to me.”
Interestingly, the rivalry between Ojulari and Harrison Jr. didn’t start at the professional level. It dates back to high school. In 2019, they faced each other—Ojulari represented Marietta High School while Harrison Jr. suited up for St. Joseph's Prep. Little did they know that their paths would cross again under such unexpected circumstances.
A Crucial Conversation
When the jersey number conflict emerged, Ojulari and Harrison Jr. didn't waste time addressing it. They initiated a dialogue over text and phone to discuss the issue. As Ojulari recounts, “We was just chopping it up. We got to talking about the number.” This was no small matter for either player, especially given Ojulari’s deep connection to number 18.
However, it didn’t take long for Ojulari to reach a decision. Understanding the significance that jersey numbers can hold and displaying considerable humility, he chose to relinquish number 18 to Harrison Jr. “It wasn’t a hard decision,” Ojulari stated. “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.”
No Hard Feelings
What’s notable about this exchange is the absence of any financial transactions, a common resolution in professional sports for such disputes. Ojulari’s choice wasn’t motivated by money but by his commitment to the team and respect for his new teammate.
Marvin Harrison Jr. couldn’t have been more appreciative. “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.” This shared respect between the two teammates promises to cultivate a positive and collaborative atmosphere within the Cardinals’ locker room.
A New Chapter
With the decision made, Ojulari has adopted a new number, 9, opening a fresh chapter in his professional career. Although parting with number 18 was significant, Ojulari remains optimistic and focused on his contributions to the team. “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.”
This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the nuanced relationships and unspoken codes that govern the world of professional sports. It highlights the importance of character and the ethos of putting the team above personal glory—principles that both Ojulari and Harrison Jr. seem to embody fully.
As the Cardinals prepare for the new season, the leadership and maturity shown by these young players augur well for the team’s chemistry and future success. Both men, through their actions and words, are setting a strong example for their teammates and fans alike.