NFL1 hour ago1 minute read

Caleb Williams Fined By NFL For Refusing To Cover Custom Cleat Logo

Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams faces fines for refusing to tape over his non approved Caddix cleat logos.

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Stand over cleat logo brings league fines

Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams is taking a stand against league dress rules. The young quarterback has been fined $35,823 over the past two weeks for wearing custom footwear and refusing to cover up the brand logo.

League rules state that players can only display logos from Adidas, Nike, and Under Armour. Players can wear other brands, but they must tape over the logos. Williams has refused to cover his Caddix cleats out of principle.

The story behind the footwear

Williams believes the cleats help prevent injuries. Caddix uses specialized technology designed to reduce torque on the feet, knees, and ankles. Around 40 other players across the league wear the brand.

Williams and his father, Carl, are not investors or representatives for the company. The relationship started when Williams's quarterback trainer reached out to Caddix last year. CEO Jack Rasmussen met Williams in Jacksonville to design a pair that fit his needs.

Rasmussen and NFL quarterback Joe Flacco, who is an investor in the brand, have both offered to pay the fines. Rasmussen noted he cannot explain why Williams refuses to tape over the logo, but he supports the quarterback.

Channeling Chicago history

The standoff brings back memories of 1985. Former Bears quarterback Jim McMahon drew heat from commissioner Pete Rozelle for wearing an unapproved headband during Chicago's championship run. McMahon was fined $5,000 before famously wearing a headband with the commissioner's name on it the next week.

Williams is now creating a similar stir in Chicago with his refusal to back down.

What it means for the next game

Chicago Bears at Seattle Seahawks (NFL, Tue, 03 Nov): Seattle Seahawks win 55%, Chicago Bears win 45%; projected score Seattle Seahawks 26, Chicago Bears 22. Our safest pick: Over 39.5 points.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Chicago Bears (NFL, Mon, 09 Nov): Chicago Bears win 70%, Tampa Bay Buccaneers win 30%; projected score Chicago Bears 26, Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20. Our safest pick: Bears to win.