Caleb Williams to Keep Wearing Caddix Cleats Despite NFL Fines

Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams intends to keep wearing Caddix cleats despite NFL fines for leaving the brand’s logo visible during games. The reported penalties for violations in Weeks 6 and 7 total $35,823, with the second fine twice the first. Williams was fined $11,941 for the Week 6 violation against the Atlanta Falcons, then $23,882 for a second visible-branding violation in Week 7, according to reports. The penalties concern the unauthorized logo, not simply the use of footwear made by a brand without an NFL partnership. NFL uniform guidance allows players to wear shoes from other manufacturers if unapproved names and logos are removed or covered. Nike, Adidas and Under Armour have league partnerships that permit their branding to appear. Caddix does not have such a licensing deal with the NFL. Williams has said the cleats are comfortable and that he wears them in part to help stay healthy. He described their SmartStuds as moving with the wearer when the foot plants on turf or grass, which he said reduces tension on tendons and joints. Those safety benefits are his assessment; the reported information does not independently establish that the cleats prevent...