Top 100 2026 Ohio LB Cincere Johnson talks Michigan, summer visit, more

Michigan welcomed one of the top linebackers in the 2026 recruiting on campus in June for a camp.

Top 100 Cleveland (Ohio) Glenville star Cincere Johnson returned for his second-ever appearance and enjoyed connecting with the coaching staff.

“It was a great experience going up to Ann Arbor,” Johnson told The Wolverine . “Just working with the coaches, talking to the coaches, learning from the coaches, being with the players there, and they were teaching some stuff. So, that whole environment was good.”

The camp atmosphere gave Johnson plenty of insight to take back to his school.

“It was great getting coached (by) them,” Johnson said. “It was great just tweaking my game and giving me points, tips that I can use during the season. That was great. I loved it and enjoyed every second of it.”

Michigan linebackers coach Brian Jean-Mary led drills in which Johnson took part.

“He’s a great coach,” Johnson said. “His love for the game was high. High energy. Just pushing you to be better and showing sportsmanship. One thing he did like (from me) was the little things, just seeing the little things, doing it right.”

Johnson also reunited with Michigan running backs coach Tony Alford , the area recruiter in Cleveland, a role he also maintained during his nine years with Ohio State.

“I mess with Tony,” Johnson said. “What he did was pretty big, but he’s a great guy. He made the best decision for him. But I mess with him. He gives off good vibes.”

The development of Michigan’s linebackers in recent history has Johnson’s attention.

“It’s big,” Johnson said. “Obviously, they produce linebackers, produce defensive players. So, the production is there. It’s not like they’re not producing anyone. They’re producing a lot.”

So, what would it mean for Johnson to notch an offer from Michigan?

“It would mean a lot for me to get an offer,” Johnson said. “Obviously, living in Ohio and being an Ohio kid, to us, that’s the team up north. But as a football player, that’s a great opportunity. Who doesn’t want to be up there? They win nattys, they win bowls, produce. It’s a great place to be at.”

At 6-foot-3, 225 pounds, Johnson is listed as the No. 87 overall prospect and the No. 9 linebacker in the country, according to On3 . He’s also the No. 3 player in Ohio.

Johnson currently holds notable offers from Notre Dame, Michigan State, Kentucky, Louisville, Florida State, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Texas A&M, Pitt, and Missouri, among others.

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