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 laid out a potential conflict over jersey numbers, one that might have been challenging for many, but not for these two athletes.
Both Harrison Jr. and Ojulari had a strong attachment to the number 18, a number they wore with pride during their collegiate careers. Harrison Jr. donned the number at Ohio State while Ojulari carried it at LSU. For Ojulari, the number 18 was more than just a jersey—it represented an honor. During his final season at LSU, Ojulari was awarded the number, a distinction given to the player who exemplifies character, academics, and leadership. It was a season to remember, as LSU claimed the SEC Western Division title with Ojulari leading the charge.
A Shared History
The connection between Ojulari and Harrison Jr. goes deeper than their collegiate accomplishments. The two had squared off in high school, with Ojulari suiting up for Marietta High School and Harrison Jr. playing for St. Joseph's Prep. Their paths crossed once more, this time on the grand stage of the NFL, and the jersey number controversy prompted them to reconnect.
Respectful Negotiations
The two engaged in a respectful dialogue over text and phone to address the number conflict. Reflecting on the situation, Ojulari commented, “We was just chopping it up. We got to talking about the number.” Despite the significance of the number 18 to his personal and professional journey, Ojulari decided to give it up for Harrison Jr.
“It wasn’t a hard decision,” said Ojulari. His willingness to let go of something so meaningful showcased his team-first mentality, a trait that the Cardinals could only applaud. Harrison Jr., fully aware of the weight Ojulari's decision carried, expressed his gratitude. “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 acknowledged.
Character Over Numbers
Ojulari's decision was emblematic of his character. “It meant everything to me. It was really important to me,” he admitted. Still, his sense of team and leadership won out. “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.”
The transition wasn’t just symbolic. Ojulari’s new jersey number, 9, represents a fresh start and a new chapter in his NFL career. Yet, his fondness for his old number remains. “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, reminiscing about his time at LSU.
A Unified Front
With both players now aligned and ready to contribute to the Cardinals, the jersey number conflict turned resolution showcases the professional respect and camaraderie within the team. There was no animosity, no bargaining, just mutual respect and the shared objective of team success. No money exchanged hands in the process, making it a testament to the sportsmanship and maturity both players exhibit.
As BJ Ojulari and Marvin Harrison Jr. gear up to take on the NFL season with the Arizona Cardinals, this episode serves as a testament to their character and their commitment to the team. Their actions speak volumes about their priorities, setting a precedent for how conflicts, however small, can be resolved with grace and mutual respect in professional sports.
In the end, the number on the jersey might change, but the integrity and dedication these athletes showcase remain constant, promising a bright future for both themselves and the Arizona Cardinals.