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

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Ian Valentino | Last updated May 28, 2025 12:01 AM ET

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.

NEWS: Elite 2026 LB Cincere Johnson will announce his College Decision on June 19th, he tells me for @on3recruits

The 6’3 225 LB from Cleveland, OH is ranked as the No. 3 LB in the ‘26 Class (per On3)

Where Should He Go? ⬇️https://t.co/bc15wU0MqA pic.twitter.com/iMF6HEWr8w
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) May 27, 2025

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.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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