Caleb Williams says he doesn't care about critics of his painted nails in football

Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams told a podcast audience he does not care about critics of his painted nails and described how the practice began with family influence and later became a way to support causes.

Caleb Williams, the Chicago Bears quarterback, has continued to wear painted nails and addressed critics of the look on The Rush Podcast with Maxx Crosby. He described how the habit began with his mother, who is a nail technician, and how an early visit to a salon with a then-girlfriend led him to start getting manicures. Williams said he has used nail art both to troll opponents and to display messages that matter to him. He also noted the practice alongside NFL dress rules and said he plans to keep doing it because it feels unique to him. Key details: - Williams told the podcast he does not care about critics and said he has "no issue" responding to analysts when he chooses to do so. - He traced the habit to his mother, a nail technician, and to a first salon visit while dating someone who got her nails done. - He has used nails for both trolling messages and supportive causes, including mental health and suicide prevention designs and breast cancer awareness colors. - In September, he visited a nail technician recommended by WNBA player Angel Reese and wore a manicure on Monday Night Football that included the suicide prevention logo and the number 988. - Williams said the nails let him "embrace" and "show love" to things that matter to him and that he intends to continue the practice. Summary: Williams has defended wearing painted nails in a sport often labeled as masculine and explained personal and practical reasons for doing so. He described using nail art for messages and causes, and announced he will continue to make it part of his public image. Undetermined at this time.