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Caleb Williams facing backlash over possible new nickname

Caleb Williams firmly established himself as one of the top young quarterbacks in the league after an incredible second season with the Chicago Bears.

The former USC Trojans star played all 17 games for the Bears in 2025, leading the team to an 11-6 record. It was a massive jump from Chicago’s 5-12 standing in Williams’ rookie campaign.

In 2025, Williams registered 3,942 yards and 27 touchdowns on 568 completed passes. The 24-year-old also added 388 rushing yards and three TDs on the ground on 77 carries.

Thanks in large part to Williams’ strong play, the Bears clinched the NFC North title for the first time since 2018. They also progressed to the Divisional Round, where they succumbed to the Los Angeles Rams in overtime, 20-17.


Nov 9, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) reacts against the New York Giants during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images

Williams has earned a reputation for being a clutch performer for the Bears. This past season, his awe-inspiring fourth-and-8 play against the Green Bay Packers in the NFL playoffs gave birth to the “Iceman” moniker. Williams has embraced the title and is now looking to make it his own exclusively.

Fans react to Chicago Bears star Caleb Williams’ offseason move 

News emerged on Wednesday that Williams has applied for multiple trademark protections for the word “Iceman.” According to a report by NBC Sports’ Pro Football Talk, records show that Williams’ camp has made multiple filings with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. The application covers a wide range of merchandise as Williams looks to monetize on his well-known nickname.

While some fans are supporting the Bears star’s latest endeavor, more than a few others are calling out Williams’ decision.

“i feel like this is doing too much like its ok to have some confidence but aint this a little bit of an ego trip,” a comment on X read.

“Not a term he will have control over!!! Too many other athletes have used that term!! Sorry, Come up with some other nicknames!!!” another said.

“What a waste of money. Literally nobody calls him that. They all call him Cryin Caleb,” claimed a crtic.

“nobody knows him as that and he hasn’t been in the league long enough to be known for anything except his thighs rubbing together,”  a reaction read.

“Loooooooool he’s so corny,” said another.

“Let’s get to 4000 yards and better accuracy % before we start worrying about getting a patent for a nickname,” demanded a fan.

Despite Williams’ heroics last season, it is clear that he still has a lot of haters out there. Then again, the abundance of naysayers could also be a good measure of his success.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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