Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams has been fined $23,882 by the NFL for wearing Caddix cleats in Week 7, which is double the fine he received in Week 6 for the same uniform violation. The NFL only permits cleats from partners Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour, requiring players to cover logos on other brands. Williams, who has appealed his Week 6 fine, refuses to cover the logo, emphasizing that the cleats' patented "Smart Studs" technology is designed to reduce rotational torque and prevent injuries.
Caddix founder Jack Rasmussen has expressed support, stating the company is willing to pay the fines. Williams wore the cleats during his recent return from a hamstring injury, marking consecutive 300-yard passing games—the first Bears quarterback to do so since Mitchell Trubisky in 2018. Williams remains committed to the brand, prioritizing his long-term health and safety on the field over NFL marketing regulations.
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing