Bears QB Caleb Williams Embraces Nail Design Criticism

The NFL star opens up about his unique nail art and the backlash he faces.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams is speaking out about the negative comments he receives regarding his elaborate nail designs. Williams, who is known for painting his nails in team colors and using them to make social statements, says he doesn't let the criticism bother him and plans to continue expressing himself through his nail art.

Why it matters

Williams' nail designs have made him a unique figure in the NFL, but his choice to wear nail polish has also subjected him to homophobic remarks. This story highlights the challenges professional athletes can face when challenging traditional gender norms and the importance of self-expression, even in a masculine sport like football.

The details

In a recent interview, Williams shared that the idea for his nail designs came from the women in his life, including an ex-girlfriend and his mother who is a nail technician. Despite the negative comments, Williams says he doesn't "give a f*ck" about the criticism and plans to keep doing his nails, calling it "unique to me." The NFL star also discussed his excitement to get back on the field after leading the Bears to the playoffs last season.

  • In the 2025-2026 season, Williams wrote the suicide hotline number on his nails.
  • Williams spoke about the criticism of his nail designs in a recent interview on The Rush Podcast with Maxx Crosby.

The players

Caleb Williams

The starting quarterback for the Chicago Bears who is known for his elaborate nail designs.

Angel Reese

A star player for the Chicago Sky who connected her nail technician with Williams to do his suicide hotline nail design.

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What they’re saying

“I know who I am,”

— Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears Quarterback (The Rush Podcast)

“It's just gel on my nails. People feel a certain way about it in a masculine sport. I give no f*cks...I could care less.”

— Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears Quarterback (The Rush Podcast)

“I'm going to keep doing it. It's unique to me.”

— Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears Quarterback (The Rush Podcast)

What’s next

Williams is expected to continue expressing himself through his nail designs as he prepares for the upcoming 2026-2027 NFL season.

The takeaway

Caleb Williams' embrace of his unique nail designs in the face of criticism highlights the importance of self-expression and challenging traditional gender norms, even in the masculine world of professional sports.