Cincere Johnson, a coveted four-star linebacker from Glenville High School, pledged his commitment to Ohio State on Thursday during a ceremony in Cleveland. Johnson chose the reigning College Football Playoff champions over Penn State and Alabama.
The Buckeyes, continuing to build momentum in a loaded offseason, secured another cornerstone in their 2026 recruiting class with Johnson’s addition to the linebacker corps.
Why Top Linebacker Cincere Johnson Joined The Buckeyes?
Cincere Johnson, one of the premier defenders in the 2026 recruiting cycle, has officially committed to Ohio State, adding to the Buckeyes’ loaded class. Standing at 6-foot-3 and 225 pounds, Johnson is ranked No. 70 nationally, according to the On3 Industry rankings.
On3 places him even higher, naming him the No. 1 prospect in Ohio, the No. 3 linebacker in the country, and the No. 39 overall player.
Ohio State’s consistent support through Johnson’s injury recovery played a central role in his decision.
“I knew it was Ohio State when I first got out of my sling,” Johnson said. “They was with me every step of the way after my surgery, and when I did get up to 240 and I was in a mental space of just feeling down after my surgery, they still was by my side whole way. So that’s when I kind of feel like Ohio State was home for me, when I knew the brotherhood and the feeling of being somewhere that we really get cared for.”
Four-star linebacker Cincere Johnson chose Ohio State today. Here’s why he made that decision, and how the Buckeyes stood out in his recruitment: https://t.co/Y0j50PpYn0
Andrew Gillis (@Andrew_Gillis70) June 19, 2025
His commitment continues the tradition of Glenville athletes choosing Ohio State, joining a lineage that includes Troy Smith, Ted Ginn Jr., Marshon Lattimore and Donte Whitner.
“To be part of the Glenville pipeline and join an amazing program and legacy and history and brotherhood and try and leave my mark is special,” Johnson told On3.
KEEP READING: ‘The Best Quarterbacks Come Out of Here’ – Ohio State Zeros In on Top 2028 Florida Recruit
He also highlighted the coaching staff’s extensive experience and commitment to development.
“What makes Ohio State stand out for me beyond the organization is the development,” Johnson said. “The amount of experience the coaching staff has in the league. They have 80 years from every coach in every aspect.”
Following a recent visit to Alabama, Johnson still felt Columbus was the right fit.
“Ohio State is a great program that just won a National Championship,” he said. “It’s a program that is based around brotherhood… that’s undeniable.”
Johnson’s junior season showcased his dominant ability, as he totaled 205 tackles, 41 tackles for loss, 8.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles. A dynamic and instinctive defender, he is an ideal match for what Ohio State is building on the defensive side of the ball.
