A barber can become a significant, and regular, figure in people’s lives. While the frequency of the visits can vary — from monthly to weekly, and even daily — the bond formed can be rather deep. Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud, for instance. The deep connection that he shares with his barber is of epic proportions.
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The guilt of cheating on your barber is probably a real thing. For Stroud, who moved to Houston from Ohio State last year, it seemed inevitable. The star quarterback would still fly back just to get a cut from his trusted barber.
But these visits weren’t that frequent. He ensured he would go to Case McGee, a military veteran and an acclaimed barber, before big events. Whether it was the NFL Honors or the playoff game against the Cleveland Browns, the star quarterback would knock on McGee’s doorsteps.
According to the Houston Chronicle, Stroud met McGee during his freshman year with the Buckeyes. McGee had a lot of clients from Ohio State, besides Stroud. However, the duo formed a special bond.
So, during one of Stroud’s visits this offseason, he offered McGee a chance to move to Houston. “I need you here,” Stroud said.
An offer that McGee could not refuse? Well, it seems so. The barber now resides in Houston.
The acclaimed professional that he is, McGee already had a client base in Houston — Cade Stover and Jeff Okudah, both of whom attended Ohio. His fame and clientele is growing fast now.
Even Stefon Diggs now trusts McGee for his fresh cuts, now that the wide receiver has moved to Houston. Indeed, there must be something special in him.
McGee is more than a barber to his clients
When the Stroud-led Texans beat the Browns last year in the Wild Card round, McGee attended the game. While the veteran is a long-time Browns fan, he still stood in the crowd while Stroud addressed the media, cheering and beaming with pride.
The star QB didn’t forget his barber in his speech, saying, “It was the cut, bro.” He later explained, “A haircut makes you feel like you’re that guy.”
A fresh cut from the veteran barber is all Stroud needs to boost his confidence. McGee shares a similar sentiment: “Without a haircut, you don’t get the job, you don’t get the girl. It’s everything. It’s part of the uniform.”
His connection, however, runs deeper with clients like Stroud. McGee has watched several players grow up over the years, becoming their best friend, a therapist, a big brother, and a keeper of secrets.
“It’s kind of surreal because I watch them grow up… It’s more than being a barber. You’re a big brother, you’re a best friend, you’re a therapist. And you go through a lot with them. It’s stuff I have to go the grave with,” revealed McGee.
The next time you see Stroud sporting a fresh cut, you are bound to recall the tale behind it, and smile.
