Alabama hopes to play an unexpected role in the hot recruiting pursuit elite defender favored to land in Big Ten

While the recruiting world expects Ohio State to keep four-star linebacker Cincere Johnson in-state lines, this week's top three announcement from the Cleveland, Ohio, native has some insiders wondering what will happen. Johnson, a 6-foot-3, 225-pounder in the mold of recent 2025 NFL first-round draft pick Jihaad Campbell, looks the part of being an Alabama […]

Ian Valentino National College Football Writer
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Nov 16, 2024; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Kalen DeBoer gestures during a timeout in the first quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
© Will McLelland-Imagn Images

While the recruiting world expects Ohio State to keep four-star linebacker Cincere Johnson in-state lines, this week's top three announcement from the Cleveland, Ohio, native has some insiders wondering what will happen.

Johnson, a 6-foot-3, 225-pounder in the mold of recent 2025 NFL first-round draft pick Jihaad Campbell, looks the part of being an Alabama star. Despite that, few expect Johnson to consider choosing Kalen DeBoer's Tide over Penn State, let alone the Buckeyes.

On June 19, we will find out.

Alabama assistant Chuck Morrell has been handling Johnson's recruitment. 

While our insiders say Penn State is seriously being considered by Johnson, On3's Steve Wiltfong feels Alabama is the dark horse involved.

Alabama is the biggest threat to Ohio State in my opinion for Cleveland (Ohio) Glenville On300 linebacker Cincere Johnson as they try and beat the Buckeyes for another blue-chipper like they did Justin Hill in 2025.

If the Crimson Tide can swing Johnson away from Ohio State, they'll be on a good track to land another top-five recruiting class despite some concerning on-field results from DeBoer thus far.