The Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams has hit a legal roadblock in his quest to own the nickname “Iceman.” The US Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO) has officially denied his trademark application, and the reason might surprise you.
According to ESPN’s Michael Rothstein, the USPTO rejected Williams’ bid because of a trademark that’s been on the books since 1988 — LaCrosse Footwear’s “Iceman” insulated boot brand. Since Williams applied for the trademark broadly to cover clothing and apparel, the patent office determined that his use would create confusion with the existing boot line.
“These marks are identical in appearance, sound and meaning,” the USPTO wrote in its refusal letter. “Additionally, because they are identical, these marks are likely to engender the same connotation and overall commercial impression when considered in connection with applicant’s and registrant’s respective goods and/or services.”
Had Williams narrowed his application to exclude clothing, he might have slipped through. But by casting a wide net, he inadvertently stepped on the toes of a footwear company that has held the trademark for nearly four decades.
The decision brings relief to a few notable figures who have long been associated with the nickname. UFC legend Chuck Liddell, NBA Hall of Famer George Gervin, and fans of the classic film Top Gun — where Val Kilmer’s character was famously called Iceman — can breathe easy knowing the moniker won’t be legally tied to a rookie quarterback just yet.
NFL fans, meanwhile, have been less than impressed with Williams’ attempt to lock down the nickname. Many argue that a few solid games in his debut season don’t warrant a trademarked handle. “His nickname was given to him midway through last season. A handful of games through a season doesn’t earn you a nickname. He certainly wasn’t the iceman his first year,” one fan wrote dismissively on social media.
Another fan posted an image of Kilmer’s Top Gun character with the caption: “He’ll never be Iceman.” A third simply said, “Good, because it’s not unique in the slightest.” One critic was even harsher, suggesting Williams should have gone with “Captain crybaby” instead.
Williams isn’t the only quarterback navigating trademark territory lately. Raiders QB Fernando Mendoza filed for “Nandolorian”, showing that securing a nickname in the NFL is becoming a trend — though not always a successful one.
For now, Williams will have to head back to the drawing board. There’s still plenty of time for him to find a new nickname that actually clears legal hurdles — and maybe wins over a few more fans in the process.
