Four-star linebacker Cincere Johnson commits to Ohio State

COLUMBUS — The Glenville to Ohio State pipeline is continuing: four-star linebacker Cincere Johnson has committed to the Buckeyes.

Coming off his official visit to Ohio State last weekend, Johnson chose the in-state Buckeyes over Penn State and Alabama, among other elite offers he earned throughout his recruitment.

He’s the second linebacker to commit to linebackers coach James Laurinaitis, joining four-star Olentangy (Lewis Center, Ohio) prospect CJ Sanna, who committed to the Buckeyes in the spring.

As for Johnson, he’s the latest Glenville product to join Ohio State, joining cornerback Bryce West, linebacker Arvell Reese and wide receiver Damarion Witten.

Johnson made this decision because of the in-state pull and the family aspect between his own family and Ohio State — among other things.

“They loved it,” Johnson told Lettermen Row. “So that plays a big role there. Their biggest thing was just being able to feel the brotherhood and the camaraderie.

“My family’s biggest thing is their son is going to a place and wanting him to feel at home. And they felt that, that’s what they told me this weekend. So just the living situation, the school aspect and the community, obviously.”

Johnson, the No. 70 overall prospect in the On3 Industry Ranking, also felt at home in Columbus on his official visit.

“Yes, sir,” Johnson said. “I’ve been down there plenty of times. It was good being able to connect with everybody all weekend and just pick their brain. It was a good time.”

The Buckeyes battled Alabama and Penn State for the 6-foot-3, 240-pound Johnson.

He is the No. 4 linebacker prospect and No. 2 prospect in Ohio for the 2026 class, according to the On3 Industry Ranking.

Before Thursday, he was the highest-ranked uncommitted prospect in the Buckeye State this cycle. But he’s now the latest Buckeyes commitment, the second linebacker in the 2026 class.