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 Jeff Schwimmer, Arizona's equipment manager. The message detailed a potential conflict over jersey numbers, setting off a series of events that would lead to a mutual agreement and a demonstration of sportsmanship and unity within the team.
A Coveted Jersey Number
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. The number held special significance for Ojulari. During his final season at LSU, he was awarded the number 18, a highly coveted honor bestowed upon the best all-around player for their character, academics, and leadership traits. Wearing the number 18, Ojulari helped LSU win the SEC Western Division title, a testament to his impact on and off the field.
For both players, the number 18 was more than just a digit on a jersey; it represented hard work, dedication, and a symbol of their collegiate triumphs. The clash over this number could have led to tension, but the situation unfolded differently.
Resolving the Conflict
When the issue was brought to their attention, both Ojulari and Harrison Jr. initiated a dialogue over text and phone to discuss the jersey number conflict. The conversation revealed their mutual respect for one another and their shared commitment to the team. “We was just chopping it up. We got to talking about the number,” Ojulari said, reflecting on their discussions.
In a display of selflessness and team spirit, Ojulari decided to give up the number 18 jersey to Harrison Jr. “It wasn’t a hard decision,” he remarked, underscoring his willingness to prioritize team harmony over personal preferences. Notably, no money exchanged hands in the process, highlighting the genuine nature of the agreement.
Mutual Respect and Gratitude
Marvin Harrison Jr. expressed his gratitude for 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. said, acknowledging the significance of the number for Ojulari.
Ojulari’s decision to relinquish his beloved number exemplifies his character and commitment to the team's success. “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 said, emphasizing his team-first mentality.
A New Chapter
With the number 18 now belonging to Harrison Jr., Ojulari opted for a new jersey number—9. This choice marks the beginning of a new chapter in his professional career, one where his collegiate accolades and leadership traits will undoubtedly continue to shine. Reflecting on his time with the number 18, Ojulari shared, “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.”
The resolution of the jersey number conflict between Ojulari and Harrison Jr. is a testament to the sportsmanship, respect, and unity within the Arizona Cardinals. As both players embark on their NFL careers, their actions off the field have already set a positive tone for their contributions to the team. Their story is a reminder that in a sport often defined by competition, coexistence and collaboration can lead to greater success.