Caleb Williams Covers Caddix Logo After NFL Fines

Williams said after the game that he covered the logo to reduce attention around the dispute and avoid making it a distraction for the Bears. He had worn the Caddix cleats all season, arguing they were comfortable and helped him stay healthy.

The NFL allows players to wear cleats from other brands if their logos are concealed. Williams was fined $11,941 in Week 6 and $23,882 in Week 7 for leaving the Caddix mark visible, bringing the total to $35,823.

Before the Seattle game, Williams had said he would not cover the logo. The league could have barred him from playing if he continued violating its uniform policy, though no such decision was confirmed. Bears coach Ben Johnson had said he expected Williams to act in the team’s interests.

Caddix cleats use the company’s SmartStuds design, which it says is intended to reduce rotational force on knees and ankles while maintaining traction. The cleats passed NFL testing in 2025 and were approved for players earlier this year.

Bengals quarterback Joe Flacco, a Caddix investor, and the company offered to pay Williams’ fines. It is unclear whether either offer was accepted. Williams is not an investor in Caddix.