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. The message detailed 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. 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.
Ojulari and Harrison Jr. had crossed paths before. In high school, they played against each other in 2019, with Ojulari representing Marietta High School and Harrison Jr. suiting up for St. Joseph's Prep. The history between the two only deepened the significance of the upcoming decision.
The conflict needed to be resolved, and Ojulari and Harrison Jr. initiated a dialogue over text and phone. Despite the sentimental value Ojulari attached to the number, he decided to give up the number 18 jersey for Harrison Jr. "It meant everything to me. It was really important to me," Ojulari explained, but added, "It wasn’t a hard decision." No money exchanged hands in the process of Ojulari giving up the number 18 jersey, underscoring the sportsmanship and camaraderie between the two players.
Reflecting on the discussions, Ojulari said, "We was just chopping it up. We got to talking about the number." The decision speaks volumes about Ojulari's team-first mentality. "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 added.
Harrison Jr. was highly appreciative of Ojulari's gesture. "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. stated, highlighting the mutual respect between the two young athletes.
With the number 18 now Harrison Jr.'s, Ojulari chose the number 9 for his new jersey number. While the change marks a new chapter, Ojulari remains deeply connected to his past. "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," Ojulari reflected.
The resolution of this jersey conflict without any animosity or financial exchange speaks volumes about the character of both players. As the Arizona Cardinals prepare for the upcoming season, it is clear that they not only have talented athletes on their roster but also men of great character and leadership. This incident sets a positive tone for the team's future, showcasing that respect and teamwork are just as important as any physical abilities on the field.