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Signed: Buckeyes linebacker room adds another talented Ohioan in Cincere Johnson

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The Early-Signing Period is here and Ohio State is set to once again bring in one of the country’s best recruiting classes. Lettermen Row is tracking the Buckeyes recruiting news throughout the signing period as 2026 commitments officially join the Ohio State football program. The latest Letter of Intent is in: Cincere Johnson has signed with the Buckeyes.

COLUMBUS — The Silver Bullets are reloading as linebackers coach James Laurinaitis has added one of the top prospects in the country. Four-star linebacker Cincere Johnson has signed his Letter of Intent to Ohio State and is officially a Buckeye.

What does it mean for the Buckeyes? Let’s check it out.

Who is Cincere Johnson?

Cincere Johnson is a four-star linebacker from Cleveland, Ohio. He attended Glenville High School, a notorious Ohio State pipeline program. Johnson committed to the Buckeyes in June following his official visit to Columbus. He also took trips to Alabama and Penn State before siding with the in-state school.

Rivals Industry Rankings: No. 56 overall, No. 3 linebacker, No. 3 in Ohio

Rivals Ranking: No. 94 overall, No. 6 linebacker, No. 3 in Ohio

Height: 6-foot-2.5

Weight: 240 pounds

Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio

High School: Glenville 

Scouting Report: “A thumping linebacker who brings versatility as a front-seven defender. Measured at around 6-foot-2, 240 pounds before his senior season. Arms measure a shade under 33 inches to go with big hands. Primarily lines up as an inside linebacker on Friday nights. At his best when flowing downhill as a blitzer and run defender. Sees plays quickly and triggers with gusto. Has the play strength to deconstruct blocks and shed to make plays behind the line of scrimmage. A strong tackler on contact and finishes with physicality. Instincts allow him to play fast. Could potentially outgrow linebacker, as he is already heavier than most top prospects at the position. Will need to continue improving his speed, despite his instincts allowing for quick diagnosis. Younger for the cycle, turning 17 years old in July before his senior season.” – Rivals Director of Scouting Charles Power.