Caleb Williams (Photo Via Imagn Images)

Bears Star Caleb Williams Accused Of Stealing

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Arnab Mondal | Last updated Mar 28, 2026 1:18 PM ET

Caleb Williams is dealing with an unexpected issue this offseason over his “Iceman” nickname. Reports say he recently filed several trademark applications for the name.

Williams, the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, had a strong second season in Chicago. He threw for 3,942 yards and helped the Chicago Bears reach the divisional round. Fans started calling him “Iceman” because of his calm play late in games. After that, his company tried to secure the nickname for business use on items like sports gear and clothing.

However, the move upset some fans. Many people already link “Iceman” to George Gervin, who used the nickname during his time with the San Antonio Spurs. Gervin never trademarked the name before, but he quickly responded after Williams’ move and filed his own applications.

War Of Words Follows Trademark Filings

Jan 4, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) warms up before the game between the Chicago Bears and the Detroit Lions at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

Gervin is clearly frustrated. “I’ve been the Iceman for 40-something years,” he said. “I never thought anybody would try to trademark it. He kind of knocked me out the box.”

The situation drew attention from sports media. Skip Bayless publicly backed Gervin and criticized Williams. “I’m a Caleb Williams fan. But I was a much bigger Iceman Gervin fan, and I’m offended Caleb and Co. are trying to steal George’s all-time great nickname, I unleash on today’s Arena Gridiron 2:30 E.” Bayless wrote.

Williams did not stay quiet. He responded directly on social media and pushed back on the accusation. “Idc about where your fandom stands. I was trying give you and everyone else the benefit of the doubt,” Williams wrote. He also challenged the use of the word “steal” and added, “Words matter Skip Bayless.”

The issue is now with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Officials will review both sides and decide who has the legal right to the nickname.

For now, fans and analysts keep debating. Some believe Williams is just protecting his brand. Others feel it detracts from the legacy Gervin built many years ago. The final decision will decide who can use “Iceman” for business.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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