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

Caleb Williams Hit With Unexpected Legal Issue — Details Emerging

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Lou Flavius | Last updated Mar 26, 2026 6:44 PM ET

Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams will not have a clear path to the end zone in a certain business venture.

The star QB did not quite live up to the hype in year 1, but looked like a world beater under new head coach Ben Johnson last season. He earned the nickname “Iceman” for his ice-cold, clutch performances over the course of the campaign.

And he’s now looking to trademark the term.

The former USC star announced plans to trademark his new nickname, along with a silhouette of his iconic game-winning throw against the Green Bay Packers in the wild card round.

According to the application, Williams intends to sell products using the trademarks.

“Williams submitted four trademark applications, two for the Iceman nickname, with one being a unique design, and two for the silhouette of the off-balance throw,” per trademark attorney Josh Gerben.

“Assuming the applications get approved, Williams plans to use both trademarks for footballs, apparel, sunglasses, trading cards, and more.”

This probably wouldn’t have been a problem if there wasn’t already a legendary sports figure nicknamed “Iceman.”

The Original “Iceman” Asks Caleb Williams To Back Off

Former player George Iceman Gervin attends the NBA Hall of Fame press conference at the Hilton Orlando. (Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports)

The Chicago Sun-Times is reporting that former NBA superstar George “Iceman” Gervin has since filed for “Iceman” and “Iceman 44.”

A three-time ABA All-Star and nine-time NBA All-Star, Gervin has been known as the “Iceman” since the 1970s.

The four-time NBA scoring champion made his application four days after Williams’ filing.

He argues that he’s the original owner of the moniker. He also says he was under the impression that he already owned the trademark.

The president and CEO of his Gervin Global Management entertainment company said there was some confusion over their attempts to file because of the death of a business associate.

“I’ve got nothing but respect for [Williams],” Gervin told the publication. “He’s already proved greatness, and his potential upside is great. Like an ‘Iceman.’ But that name is taken…All I’m saying is: Young fella, we’ve already got one ‘Iceman.’

He plans to contest it if Williams’ trademark is approved.

To be fair, the QB should have expected this. Gervin has been the “Iceman” for roughly 50 years.

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

More must-reads: