Flacco Offers to Pay Williams’ Caddix Cleat Fines

On October 31, Joe Flacco offered to cover future fines against Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams for wearing Caddix cleats. Williams has been fined twice this season for displaying the brand’s logo, receiving $11,941 after Week 6 and $23,882 after Week 7, for a total of $35,823.

Flacco, who has worn Caddix cleats since 2024 and invested in the company, said the footwear works for him and may help protect players. Caddix founder Jack Rasmussen has also offered to pay Williams’ fines. Because the NFL deducts fines from players’ pay, either man would need to reimburse Williams directly.

The league’s rules allow players to wear cleats from other manufacturers, but their logos must be covered. The NFL’s apparel partnerships with major brands are part of the reason for those restrictions. Caddix says its flexible SmartStuds are designed to reduce rotational stress on knees and ankles during sudden movements.

Williams has said he chose the cleats to support his health and stay on the field, particularly after returning from a hamstring injury. Rasmussen says more than 80 NFL players have worn Caddix cleats, though Williams is the only one he knows of who has been fined. Other players have worn the footwear with its logo concealed.

A league decision could require Williams and other Caddix users to cover the logo or prevent them from entering games, a possibility raised in coverage of the issue. Williams has appealed his initial fine.