About two weeks after Marvin Harrison Jr. was selected fourth overall by the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL draft, a jersey number conflict emerged, involving another Cardinals' draft pick, BJ Ojulari. A communication from Arizona's equipment manager, Jeff Schwimmer, brought this issue to light.
Harrison Jr. and Ojulari both sported the number 18 jersey during their college careers, Harrison Jr. with the Ohio State Buckeyes and Ojulari with the LSU Tigers. This shared affinity for the same number set the stage for an intriguing dialogue between two young athletes with much respect for each other. For Ojulari, wearing number 18 was particularly special, as he was awarded the number during his final season at LSU. This accolade is reserved for players who demonstrate exceptional character, academic dedication, and leadership qualities. Under his leadership, LSU clinched the SEC Western Division title that year.
The connection between the two athletes stretches back to their high school days. In 2019, Ojulari played for Marietta High School and Harrison Jr. for St. Joseph's Prep. Their familiarity likely facilitated the open and respectful conversation that ensued when the number issue arose. As Ojulari recounted, “We was just chopping it up. We got to talking about the number.” He emphasized the importance of the number to him, noting, “It meant everything to me. It was really important to me.”
Despite this sentiment, Ojulari made the decision to relinquish the vaunted number to Harrison Jr., a choice he expressed he found easy to make. “It wasn’t a hard decision,” he commented, highlighting his team-first mentality. Harrison Jr. mirrored this graciousness in 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.”
Ojulari’s contribution to the team and willingness to sacrifice for its benefit did not go unnoticed. “He’s a great guy. I feel like he deserves it. He’s gonna be instrumental for us in the offensive strike,” Ojulari lauded his fellow rookie. “So, it was a no-brainer. The team comes first, and whatever I can do to make us more successful, I’ll do.” This level of mutual respect and professionalism speaks volumes about their character and potential impact on the Cardinals.
In the spirit of team unity and collaboration, Ojulari chose a new number for himself – 9. This change marks a new chapter in his professional career, one he steps into with enthusiasm and maturity. Reflecting on his time with the number 18 jersey, Ojulari reminisced, “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.”
The jersey number swap between BJ Ojulari and Marvin Harrison Jr. is a testament to the spirit of sportsmanship that defines elite athletes. The Cardinals organization undoubtedly benefits from such a harmonious and selfless team dynamic as they approach the upcoming season with renewed energy and optimism.