About two weeks after Marvin Harrison Jr. was selected fourth overall by the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL draft, a minor yet significant dilemma surfaced within the team. Both Harrison Jr. and BJ Ojulari, a fellow rookie, had their hearts set on the cherished number 18 jersey. This number carried personal significance for both players, having been part of their high school and college football journeys.
Harrison Jr. donned the number 18 during his illustrious collegiate career with the Ohio State Buckeyes, while Ojulari wore the same number as a standout for the LSU Tigers. Ojulari’s association with the number 18 was especially meaningful, as it was awarded to him during his final season at LSU—a testament to his character, academic excellence, and leadership. The number is a distinguished honor in LSU's football program, symbolizing the best all-around player each season.
A Storied Number
Throughout his final season, Ojulari’s exceptional performance contributed to LSU winning the SEC Western Division title, further cementing the number 18's significance. "It meant everything to me. It was really important to me," Ojulari shared, reflecting on the honor.
However, the arrival of Harrison Jr. in Arizona presented a unique conundrum for Ojulari. When he received a message from Jeff Schwimmer, the Cardinals' equipment manager, detailing the potential conflict, it became clear that a decision needed to be made. Interestingly, Ojulari and Harrison Jr. had crossed paths before, playing against each other in high school back in 2019—Ojulari representing Marietta High School and Harrison Jr. suiting up for St. Joseph's Prep.
The Resolution
Despite the potential for tension, both players approached the situation amicably. Initiating dialogue over texts and phone calls, they discussed the future of the coveted jersey number. Eventually, Ojulari chose to relinquish the number 18 in favor of Harrison Jr., a gesture marked by mutual respect and understanding. "We was just chopping it up. We got to talking about the number," Ojulari recounted.
Marvin Harrison Jr. couldn't have been more appreciative. “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.
For Ojulari, the decision came down to team dynamics and his recognition of Harrison Jr.'s potential impact. “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 stated.
Moving Forward
The resolution of this jersey number conundrum spoke volumes about Ojulari's character and priorities. He switched to jersey number 9, symbolizing a new chapter in his NFL journey. Reflecting on his time wearing number 18, Ojulari said, “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.”
Notably, the decision didn’t involve any monetary exchange, highlighting the sportsmanship between the two players. It was a decision rooted in mutual respect and a shared commitment to the team’s success.
With the jersey issue resolved, both rookies can now focus entirely on their contributions to the Arizona Cardinals. As they step onto the field, the memory of their high school rivalry and collegiate achievements will undoubtedly fuel their ambitions. By setting aside personal preferences for the greater good, Ojulari and Harrison Jr. have already demonstrated a level of professionalism and camaraderie that bodes well for their future in the NFL.
As the Cardinals prepare for the season ahead, the bond between Ojulari and Harrison Jr. could serve as an inspiring example for their teammates. Their story illustrates the power of humility, respect, and team spirit—key components for any successful sports franchise.