Chicago Bears QB Caleb Williams Embraces Painted Nails: 'I Couldn't Care Less What Haters Say'

The NFL star opens up about his unique nail art and why he won't let critics stop him from expressing himself.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams has gained attention not only for his athletic prowess, but also his painted nails. In a recent podcast interview, Williams addressed the criticism he's faced, saying he "couldn't care less" what haters think and that he'll continue to express himself through his nail art. Williams shared that his interest in manicures stemmed from watching his mother, a nail technician, and that he started painting his own nails on a date with an ex-girlfriend. While he initially used his nails to troll opposing teams, Williams has also leveraged the platform to raise awareness for causes he cares about, like suicide prevention and breast cancer.

Why it matters

Williams' openness about his painted nails challenges traditional notions of masculinity in the male-dominated world of professional sports. His willingness to embrace a form of self-expression typically associated with femininity sends a powerful message of inclusivity and self-acceptance.

The details

In the interview on 'The Rush with Maxx Crosby' podcast, Williams shared that his interest in nail art 'stemmed from' watching his mother, a nail technician, at work. He first considered painting his own nails on a date with a former girlfriend, who encouraged him to get his nails done too. At first, Williams used his decorated digits to send messages like 'F--k Texas' to opposing teams, but he has also leveraged the platform to raise awareness for causes like suicide prevention and breast cancer.

  • Williams first started painting his nails while on a date with a former girlfriend.

The players

Caleb Williams

The Chicago Bears quarterback who has gained attention for his painted nails.

Maxx Crosby

The host of 'The Rush with Maxx Crosby' podcast, where Williams was interviewed.

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What they’re saying

“You know, people feel a certain way about it in a masculine sport and I give no f—ks, to be honest with you. I couldn't care less.”

— Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears Quarterback (The Rush with Maxx Crosby)

“I enjoy trolling, I do. I have to be careful with it now … but I do it sometimes. And I try and do it smart.”

— Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears Quarterback (The Rush with Maxx Crosby)

The takeaway

Caleb Williams' embrace of painted nails, despite criticism from those who see it as unmasculine, represents a powerful statement of self-acceptance and a challenge to traditional gender norms in professional sports. His willingness to use his platform to raise awareness for important causes further demonstrates his commitment to using his voice for positive change.