John McClain Retiring

Today is McClain's last day at the Houston Chronicle. Not many reporters know as much about the NFL as John. He will be missed by Houstonians and the wide world of pro football fans.

 

John McClain and John McClane in the same week.

 

How long did he work in Houston. I feel like he was there my entire adult life.

 

By his count, 47 years.

 

I am 64, so it has been my adult life.

 

He stayed with his beat even after the Oilers left and before the Texans came aboard, and the Chronicle stayed with him. Hats off to him.

 

I'm sure he had a long and storied career. But what I remember is that in a post-game with whoever was coaching the Texans, no one could ever get a question in because he and their columnist (whose name escapes) had this routine and rhythm where they followed each other's questions as fast as possible in this maddening back-and-forth. They literally would ask six questions each, on a rotating basis, without the chance for anyone to break in. I'm sure they practiced it.

 

One of the great pros in the business. His candor was rare and admirable.

 

I have a college friend who lives in The Woodlands and said this guy is the only reason they still subscribed to the paper. They cancelled when he retired. That's a pretty good endorsement of talent.

 

Great career. He will be missed.