About two weeks after being selected fourth overall by the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL draft, Marvin Harrison Jr. found himself at the center of an unforeseen jersey number dispute. BJ Ojulari, a new teammate, received a message from the team's equipment manager, Jeff Schwimmer, indicating a potential conflict over jersey number 18.
Both Harrison Jr. and Ojulari had sported the number 18 during their collegiate careers—Harrison Jr. with the Ohio State Buckeyes and Ojulari with the LSU Tigers. The jersey number held particular significance for Ojulari, who had been awarded it during his final season at LSU. This number is not given lightly; it is bestowed upon the player who exemplifies the best all-around character, academic excellence, and leadership.
A Coveted Honor
When Ojulari donned the number 18 jersey, it wasn’t just a number—it was a testament to his hard work, resilience, and leadership. During that season, LSU clinched the SEC Western Division title, adding to the prestige of the jersey. “It meant everything to me. It was really important to me,” Ojulari reflected on wearing number 18.
These two athletes share more than just a jersey number. Their history dates back to high school, where they competed against each other in 2019—Ojulari representing Marietta High School and Harrison Jr. playing for St. Joseph's Prep. This shared past paved the way for a mutual respect and understanding that would play a crucial role in resolving the jersey number dilemma.
Reaching a Resolution
The conflict led to a series of text messages and phone calls between the two players. "We was just chopping it up. We got to talking about the number," Ojulari said, describing how the dialogue began. Despite the high regard in which he held the number, Ojulari decided to relinquish it for his new teammate, Marvin Harrison Jr.
No financial incentives were involved in this decision, underscoring the camaraderie and team-first attitude between the players. For Harrison Jr., wearing the number 18 jersey carries immense meaning. “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. expressed.
Team-First Mentality
Ojulari's decision to give up his cherished number symbolizes the selflessness that can often be rare in professional sports. “He’s a great guy. I feel like he deserves it. He’s gonna be instrumental for us in the offensive strike,” Ojulari said of Harrison Jr. “So, it was a no-brainer. The team comes first and whatever I can do to make us more successful, I’ll do.”
Despite parting ways with the number, Ojulari's sentiment towards it remains strong. “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 added.
A New Chapter
With the matter resolved amicably, Ojulari will now don jersey number 9 as he embarks on his new journey with the Arizona Cardinals. While he may no longer wear the number 18, his actions reflect a maturity and devotion to the team that will undoubtedly shine through on and off the field.
Both players now look forward to translating their collegiate success to the NFL stage, united in their goal to contribute to the Arizona Cardinals’ pursuit of excellence. As they step into this new chapter, the mutual respect and camaraderie they've shown promise a strong foundation for the team’s future endeavors.