Why Bears QB Caleb Williams' attempt to trademark 'Iceman' was refused by U.S. Patent Office

Earlier this year, Chicago Bears QB Caleb Williams made headlines while attempting to trademark his "Iceman" nickname. While the 24-year-old offensive leader did have quite the case after a stellar 2025-26 NFL season, the U.S. Patent Office denied his original request.

While it wasn't the scenario Williams had hoped for when he sent in his application, he still has a chance to get the request passed with an appeal, which he is doing. At the moment, it remains to be seen if Williams' appeal will be successful, but the Chicago Bear is continuing on in his fight.

Here's why the 2026 Madden cover athlete was denied in an attempt to patent his nickname.

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Why was Caleb Williams' attempt to trademark 'Iceman' refused by U.S. Patent Office?

As of Wednesday, Williams' application to trademark "Iceman" was temporarily turned down, according to ESPN. The main reason was due to a 1988 trademark filed by LaCrosse Footwear on a boot and liner model and "likelihood of confusion."

"These marks are identical in appearance, sound and meaning," the USPTO wrote in its refusal letter, per ESPN. "... 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."

Earlier this year, former NBA player George Gervin filed an application to also trademark the name, due to his past nickname from his playing days. ESPN reported that this had no effect on Williams' trademark refusal.

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Can Caleb Williams appeal U.S. Patent Office's decision?

Yes, Williams does have the ability to appeal the U.S. Patent Office's decision.

Caleb Williams-George Gervin controversy

In March, Gervin was surprised that Williams applied to trademark his "Iceman" nickname. Historically, Gervin's nickname from his basketball playing days in the 1970s was Iceman, due to his relaxed manner of playing basketball.

Four days after Williams filed his trademark application, Gervin's company, Gervin Interests LLC, filed two of its own, requesting "Iceman" and "Iceman 44" to establish trademarks of its own. Iceman 44 refers to the No. 44 jersey number Gervin brandished for the whole of his NBA career.

"I've been the Iceman for 40-something years," Gervin said, according to ESPN. "I never thought anybody would try to trademark it. He kind of knocked me out the box."

According to Gerben's latest commentary, Williams does have a good case to still get his trademark eventually approved.