Alabama Crimson Tide lands official visit, look to poach elite defender from Ohio State’s backyard
The Alabama Crimson Tide is making a push to land one of the top 2026 defenders from Ohio State’s home state. Kalen DeBoer and his staff are targeting high 4-star linebacker Cincere Johnson, who aligns with the kind of standout Alabama defenders from the past. DeBoer plans to highlight the program’s tradition and pedigree during Johnson’s official visit.
The good news for Alabama is that Johnson, a defender from Glenville, Ohio, is scheduled to visit Tuscaloosa on May 31. He will also visit Clemson, Oklahoma, Ohio State, and USC, according to On3.
Alabama is considered to be in second place behind Ohio State in the race for the 6-foot-3, 235-pound linebacker. Ranked as the nation’s No. 5 linebacker, Johnson has the potential to make an immediate impact as a freshman, which could help Alabama lure him away from Ohio State.
The Buckeyes recently signed two top linebackers in the previous recruiting cycle, which could make it harder for Johnson to see significant playing time in 2026 and 2027.
Alabama’s linebacker coach Chuck Morrell is leading the recruitment efforts for Johnson, and his approach will be closely watched. While Johnson could add to the Tide’s already impressive linebacker corps, Alabama has strong young talent at the position, so Johnson’s commitment would not be critical to the future of the group.
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