Caleb Williams Accused Of 'Stealing' Legendary Athlete's Nickname

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Mar 27, 2026 4:58 PM ET

Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams is apparently in a feud with a San Antonio Spurs legend this offseason.

Williams, the No. 1 pick from the 2024 NFL Draft, had an excellent sophomore season. He broke Chicago's single-season passing record (3,942 yards) and led the team all the way to the divisional round of the playoffs. His ability to constantly make plays in crunch time earned him the nickname of "Iceman."

Back on March 16, Caleb Williams Holding Inc. filed four trademark applications regarding the "Iceman" nickname. The plan is to use that nickname for athletic sporting goods and equipment, water bottles, hats and so much more.

Some fans questioned that decision by Williams in large part because NBA legend George Gervin went by the nickname of "Iceman" for so many years. However, the Hall of Famer never filed a trademark for that nickname... until now.

Gervin Interests LLC filed two trademark applications for "Iceman" and "Iceman 44" on March 20.

"I've been the Iceman for 40-something years," Gervin said. "I never thought anybody would try to trademark it. He kind of knocked me out the box."

On Friday afternoon, former FS1 personality Skip Bayless offered his thoughts on this situation. He made it clear that he's siding with Gervin.

"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," Bayless wrote on social media. "I unleash on today’s Arena Gridiron 2:30 E."

Caleb Williams fires back.

It didn't take very long for Williams to address this claim from Bayless.

Not only did Williams respond with the literal definition of "steal," he made it known that he won't let Bayless criticize him on a public platform for no reason.

"Idc about where your fandom stands. I was trying give you and everyone else the benefit of the doubt. About knowing business and being smart about it. But I guess not," Williams replied. "Foolish of me! Also words matter Skip Bayless. 'Steal' Enjoy that podcast."

We'll see if the United States Patent and Trademark Office accepts Williams' trademark application.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: