Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams has defended his decision to wear Caddix cleats during games, despite incurring thousands of dollars in fines from the NFL. The league has exclusive partnerships with Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour for on-field footwear, making Williams' choice of cleats a violation of uniform policy.
Williams wore the unauthorized cleats in the Bears' game against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on October 18, 2026. The quarterback has stated he remains committed to wearing the Caddix brand, even as fines accumulate.
The NFL's equipment rules require players to wear approved brands, and violations typically result in financial penalties. Williams' stance highlights an ongoing tension between player preference and league sponsorship agreements.
