Bears quarterback Caleb Williams will keep wearing Caddix cleats despite a $11,941 fine, focusing on health benefits. He says the "smart cleats" help reduce injury risk and have been comfortable.
The NFL penalizes unauthorized logos; only Nike, Adidas, Under Armour have league partnerships. Williams plans to appeal and will not cover the Caddix logo. He became the first Bears QB since Mitchell Trubisky in 2018 to post back‑to‑back 300‑yard passing games after returning from a hamstring injury.
Caddix, founded by Jack Rasmussen, uses patented Smart Studs technology aimed at injury prevention. The company will pay Williams’ fine if his appeal fails, and a hearing is set for Nov. 10. About 40 NFL players currently wear Caddix cleats, including Joe Flacco, who serves as an athlete advisor. Meanwhile, Flacco has offered to cover the fines for any player who wants to wear the brand.
The situation highlights the tension between player health innovations and league equipment rules, with Williams committed to staying on field and Caddix pushing its scientific approach.
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing