BJ Ojulari Bio
Jamiu Bolaji “BJ” Ojulari is an American professional football linebacker for the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Louisiana State University Tigers. Ojulari grew up in Marietta, Georgia, where he excelled in high school football, setting records and earning accolades before making a successful transition to college football at LSU, where he quickly established himself as a standout player.
Early Life and Background
Jamiu Bolaji Ojulari was born on April 5, 2002, in Marietta, Georgia, United States. He attended Marietta High School, where he developed a passion for football. During his senior year, he set a school record with 19 sacks and was named the Area Defensive Player of the Year by the Marietta Daily Journal. Ojulari initially committed to play college football at the University of Tennessee but later changed his commitment to Louisiana State University during his senior season.
Path to American Football
Ojulari’s early exposure to football at Marietta High School laid the foundation for his athletic career. He showcased his skills on the field, earning recognition for his defensive prowess. After high school, he joined the LSU Tigers, where he played in all ten games during his freshman year. His performance included 16 tackles, four sacks, and five tackles for loss, which earned him a spot on the Southeastern Conference (SEC) All-Freshman team. His ability to perform under pressure was evident when he was named SEC Defensive Lineman of the Week after a standout game against South Carolina.
BJ Ojulari Career
Early Career (2020–2022)
BJ Ojulari began his collegiate career at LSU in 2020. He quickly made an impact, finishing his freshman season with impressive statistics. Over the next two years, he continued to develop his skills, culminating in a standout performance in 2022, where he was recognized as a First-team All-SEC player. His consistent performance and ability to make crucial plays set the stage for his entry into the NFL.
Breakthrough (2023–Present)
Ojulari was selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, being the 41st overall pick. As a rookie, he made an immediate impact, appearing in all 17 games during the 2023 season. He recorded four sacks and 40 total tackles, showcasing his potential as a key player for the Cardinals. However, his career faced a setback when he suffered a torn ACL on August 2, 2024, which ruled him out for the entire 2024 season. He began the 2025 season on the reserve/PUP list but was activated on November 15, 2025, in time for the team’s Week 11 matchup against the San Francisco 49ers.
Notable Works and Milestones
BJ Ojulari’s signature work includes his performance during his rookie season with the Arizona Cardinals, where he established himself as a promising linebacker. His accolades include being named First-team All-SEC in 2022, highlighting his collegiate success.
BJ Ojulari Award Nominations
Throughout his career, BJ Ojulari has received notable nominations, particularly during his time at LSU, where he was recognized for his outstanding performance on the field.
BJ Ojulari Awards Won
BJ Ojulari has won the First-team All-SEC award in 2022, marking a significant achievement in his football career.
BJ Ojulari Family
BJ Ojulari’s family has a rich cultural background, with his parents immigrating to the United States from Nigeria. His older brother, Azeez Ojulari, also pursued a career in football, playing for the Georgia Bulldogs before being drafted by the New York Giants in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft.
Personal Life
While specific details about BJ Ojulari’s personal life remain private, it is known that his family has a strong connection to football, with his brother’s success in the NFL serving as an inspiration for him. His maternal grandfather was the renowned Yoruba artist Twins Seven Seven, adding to the family’s artistic heritage.