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BJ Ojulari works to return to 100 percent, excited by opportunity in NFL

On3 imageby: Matthew Brune03/31/23MatthewBrune_
BJ Ojulari
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 01: linebacker B J Ojulari of Louisiana State speaks with the media during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 01, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)

LSU’s star linebacker BJ Ojulari did not participate in most of LSU’s Pro Day on Wednesday morning, as a right hamstring injury has kept him sidelined over the past couple of months, limiting his running.

Ojulari said he had made progress, but another flare up a couple weeks ago forced him to shut it down and focus on rehabbing so he could get to 100 percent as quickly as possible.

For Ojulari, testing obviously could have helped, but the highly-rated defensive end/Outside linebacker prospect has done plenty to prove himself to NFL scouts over his time at LSU. Over the past two seasons, Ojulari totaled 112 tackles, 20.5 tackles for loss, and 12.5 sacks, solidifying himself as an All-SEC caliber player for the Tigers.

Now, his focus is on preparing himself for the next level.

“The process now is to improve, heal, take some visits and get on the campus of these NFL teams and see where it goes,” Ojulari said on Wednesday.

Transition to the NFL

This past season saw Ojulari used in a new way. Instead of playing the traditional defensive end spot, new defensive coordinator Matt House had another position in mind. Ojulari started at the Jack linebacker spot, an outside linebacker position that has a heavy emphasis on rushing the passer, but is far more versatile, allowing athletes like Ojulari to impact the game in a new way.

“It was definitely very helpful being able to show my versatility playing in a three point stance and then transitioning to a two-point stance and dropping more and understanding coverages,” Ojulari said, “That’s allowed me to be flexible and fit any scheme at the next level.”

Whether it’s an NFL team running a 3-4 or a 4-3 style defense, Ojulari can carve out a role. He’s been comfortable with adding weight without losing any explosiveness and has great strength that can develop his abilities in the run game.

“Every team is different in their philosophy in what they teach,” Ojulari said. “I think I’m versatile enough to do both. Some see me as a stand up edge guy, but I can also put my hand in the ground, strike blocks and set firm edges. I’m comfortable doing both. I enjoy standing up just to be able to see the whole field and diagnose plays more quickly.”

With his older brother Azeez OJulari giving him advice and after spending a year under Brian Kelly, BJ exudes confidence. There’s a belief that he’s prepared for the next level based on his success in the SEC and his one year under Brian Kelly and Matt House.

Now, there are four weeks left until the NFL Draft and Ojulari has been mocked anywhere from late first round to mid-second round. Regardless of where he goes, he’s both excited for the next chapter, but understands what it took to get to this point.

“I just wanted to thank LSU, thank the people, thank the media, thank the staff, thank the fans, all the professors for making me into the man and the football player I am today. Being able to build a legacy, wear No. 18, and represent Louisiana is something I’m going to hold very close to my heart.”

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