About two weeks after Marvin Harrison Jr. was selected fourth overall by the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL Draft, BJ Ojulari received an unexpected message from Arizona's equipment manager, Jeff Schwimmer. The message detailed a potential jersey number conflict that arose because both Harrison Jr. and Ojulari had worn number 18 during their respective collegiate careers—Harrison Jr. with the Ohio State Buckeyes and Ojulari with the LSU Tigers.
For Ojulari, number 18 holds significant sentimental value. During his final season at LSU, he was awarded the number, a highly coveted honor bestowed upon the best all-around player for their character, academics, and leadership traits. Wearing this distinguished number, Ojulari helped lead LSU to win the SEC Western Division title.
“It meant everything to me. It was really important to me,” Ojulari remarked, highlighting the personal significance attached to the number.
High School Rivals
Interestingly, Ojulari and Harrison Jr. have a history that dates back to their high school days. They faced off in 2019, with Ojulari representing Marietta High School and Harrison Jr. suiting up for St. Joseph's Prep. Their shared history added another layer of complexity to the jersey number dilemma.
In an effort to resolve the situation amicably, Ojulari and Harrison Jr. initiated a dialogue over text and phone calls. The discussion was not just a matter of convenience but an emblematic gesture of respect and camaraderie in the sports world.
“We was just chopping it up. We got to talking about the number,” Ojulari said, indicating that their conversation was straightforward.
A Selfless Decision
In an act that spoke volumes about his character, Ojulari decided to give up the number 18 jersey for Harrison Jr. Interestingly, no money exchanged hands in the process, underscoring the act's genuineness.
“It wasn’t a hard decision,” Ojulari reflected, emphasizing his willingness to prioritize team harmony over personal preference.
Harrison Jr. was immensely grateful 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,” he said.
Team Comes First
Ojulari’s decision is not only indicative of his selflessness but also his forward-thinking mindset about the team’s collective success. “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,” Ojulari noted, showcasing his team-first mentality.
A New Chapter
Though he cherished the number 18, Ojulari is ready to start a new chapter wearing the number 9 jersey. “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 said, reflecting on the past while looking forward to future accomplishments.
As BJ Ojulari transitions to his new number, he carries with him the leadership qualities and strong character that earned him the honor of wearing number 18 at LSU. Marvin Harrison Jr., equally grateful and appreciative, dons the number knowing the significance it held for his teammate. This resolution stands as a testament to the mutual respect and team spirit that binds the athletes together, both on and off the field.