Alabama Crimson Tide lands official visit, look to poach elite defender from Ohio State's backyard
The Ohio State Buckeyes have one of the top 2026 defenders in their backyard, but Kalen DeBoer and the Alabama Crimson Tide are in the mix. High 4-star linebacker Cincere Johnson fits the mold of past great Alabama defenders, and DeBoer plans on selling the tradition and bloodline to him when it's official visit season. […]
The Ohio State Buckeyes have one of the top 2026 defenders in their backyard, but Kalen DeBoer and the Alabama Crimson Tide are in the mix. High 4-star linebacker Cincere Johnson fits the mold of past great Alabama defenders, and DeBoer plans on selling the tradition and bloodline to him when it's official visit season.
The good news for Alabama is the Glenville, Ohio, defender will make his way to Tuscaloosa on May 31 for an official visit. He'll also make his way to Clemson, Oklahoma, Ohio State, and USC, per On3.
Alabama is considered to be right behind the Buckeyes in the chase for the 6-foot-3, 235-pounder. The nation's No. 5 linebacker could be an impact freshman right off the bat, which is something that could help DeBoer pry him out of Ohio State's grasp.
The Buckeyes signed two top linebackers this past recruiting cycle, muddying the path for Johnson to see the field in 2026 and 2027.
Linebacker coach Chuck Morrell is in charge of Alabama's recruitment efforts here, so his efforts as a newcomer will be closely monitored. Alabama has a host of young linebacking talent themselves, so it's not like Johnson will make-or-break the position's future for the Tide.
