About two weeks after the Arizona Cardinals selected Marvin Harrison Jr. as the fourth overall pick in the recent NFL draft, BJ Ojulari faced an unexpected dilemma. The snag came when Jeff Schwimmer, Arizona's equipment manager, informed Ojulari of a potential conflict over jersey numbers. Both Harrison Jr. and Ojulari had donned the number 18 during their collegiate days—Harrison Jr. as a standout wide receiver with the Ohio State Buckeyes and Ojulari as a dominant defensive end at LSU.
A Number of Significance
For Ojulari, the number 18 carried deep emotional and symbolic weight. During his final season at LSU, he was honored with the number 18 jersey, a coveted designation awarded to the player who best exemplifies character, leadership, and academic prowess. It was a decision that reflected Ojulari’s all-around excellence on and off the field. "It meant everything to me. It was really important to me," Ojulari shared. The number seemed to bring luck, as LSU clinched the SEC Western Division title that season.
Marvin Harrison Jr. also held a strong attachment to the number 18, having worn it throughout his outstanding collegiate career. The conflict required a resolution, and thus began a dialogue—both over text and phone—between Ojulari and Harrison Jr. "We was just chopping it up. We got to talking about the number," Ojulari recounted.
A Decision Made with Team Spirit
The conversation remained friendly and mutual respect was evident. Despite the personal significance attached to the number 18, Ojulari decided to relinquish it to Harrison Jr. "It wasn’t a hard decision," he admitted, emphasizing the bigger picture. "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."
Marvin Harrison Jr. was equally appreciative of 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," Harrison Jr. remarked. Their dialogue not only resolved the issue but also seemed to strengthen the bond between the two new teammates.
A New Beginning
Having given up number 18, Ojulari opted for jersey number 9—turning a potential conflict into an opportunity for both players to shine. Showing no qualms about the change, Ojulari remained upbeat and focused on contributing to the Cardinals' success. "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, displaying a mature perspective.
The gesture of relinquishing his number without any monetary transaction underscored Ojulari's commitment to the team’s ethos over individual accolades. It also highlighted how both players, despite their rookie statuses, are already displaying the maturity and leadership expected at the professional level. The Arizona Cardinals, it seems, have not only added raw talent to their roster but also acquired young men of substantial character.
As the NFL season approaches, all eyes will be on how both Marvin Harrison Jr. and BJ Ojulari translate their college successes to the professional arena. For fans, the story behind the number swap adds a layer of human interest, a reminder that character and sportsmanship remain integral to the sport. The narrative underscores the fact that sometimes, the numbers on the jersey aren't as important as the players who wear them and the principles they represent.