Ohio State Buckeyes signee Cincere Johnson earns 5-star rating from Rivals

Cleveland (Ohio) Glenville linebacker Cincere Johnson has proven himself to be one of the Buckeye State’s most dominant defenders in the past couple years. It’s a huge reason why Ohio State made him one of their top priorities in the 2026 class, even prior to his rise up the recruiting rankings.

On Monday, his elite status was recognized by Rivals, which named him a five-star prospect in its last rankings release of the year. Johnson moved up more than 60 spots to finish No. 26 nationally and as the country’s top linebacker recruit.

As a senior, he was a finalist for Ohio’s Mr. Football award after racking up 185 tackles, including 42 tackles for loss, to go along with 13.5 sacks and five forced fumbles. In his team’s state semifinal win, Johnson posted 17 tackles, four tackles for loss, one sack, two forced fumbles and two pass break-ups in a 26-21 win. 

“Ohio State signee Cincere Johnson is the definition of a downhill warrior. His ability to trigger and detonate ball carriers on contact is exceptional,” Rivals’ National Scout Cody Bellaire writes. “After seeing him process and diagnose what opposing offenses were doing all week at Under Armour All-American, it was clear that Johnson is the most ready-made backer in the 2026 cycle. His size, burst and ability to trigger to the football is so advanced for his age. He can stack and shed blockers with ease and hold his own against the run.

…He even has the power to set the edge as an on-ball defender if he’s ever asked to fill that role. But he also has the suddenness and flexibility to rush the passer as an edge rusher as well. Johnson’s versatility and intangibles should allow him to see the field early and his ability to hunt ball carriers will keep him out there too.”

Johnson committed to the Buckeyes back in June, picking them over fellow finalists Alabama and USC. His decision came just a few days after his official visit to Columbus, which helped lock up his pledge in a big way. That, along with the program’s development of elite prospects, pushed them over the top.

“What makes Ohio State stand out for me beyond the organization is the development,” Johnson told Rivals’ Steve Wiltfong. “The amount of experience the coaching staff has in the league. They have 80 years from every coach in every aspect.

… You go to Ohio State to win and get developed. It’s a special place.”