Caleb Williams paints his nails and takes command in Chicago

Caleb Williams doesn’t need wristbands to remember the plays. He doesn’t need to fit the mold of a traditional quarterback either. In his second year leading the Chicago Bears, the former USC standout opened the season with two gestures that speak volumes about confidence, style, and leadership. Williams chose not to wear the usual play-call wristbands and once again sported red nail polish. It all happened during the Monday Night Football opener against the Minnesota Vikings, where the quarterback is determined to move past the doubts that lingered after his rookie season.

According to ESPN’s broadcast, as cited by TheSportsRush, Caleb Williams has never felt comfortable using wristbands. He prefers relying on memory, visualization, and direct connection with his teammates. His new head coach, Ben Johnson, embraced the decision: “I want you to look your teammates in the eye in the huddle. Visualize the play as you call it.” For Johnson, it’s not just a stylistic choice—it’s a statement of leadership.

🚨JUST IN: Chicago #Bears standout quarterback Caleb Williams is wearing RED NAIL POLISH for tonight‘s game against Minnesota.

Williams has said that he chooses his nail polish colors based on personal expression.

👀 pic.twitter.com/lCYD8iEm02

— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) September 8, 2025

Stats on the rise

While Caleb Williams hasn’t exploded statistically just yet, he’s already made his mark in Chicago. His 3,451 passing yards in 2024 ranked as the fifth-best single-season total in franchise history. Now, with a new coaching staff and more pressure than ever, the young signal-caller knows there’s no room for excuses. The city demands results, and he seems ready to deliver with attitude.

The red nail polish, which Caleb Williams has worn since his college days, sparked reactions across social media once again. Some see it as a sign of confidence, others as a provocation. But for Williams, it’s part of who he is. In a city where his father once said “quarterbacks come to die,” every gesture matters. And every game is a chance to rewrite that narrative.

With a win over the Vikings, Caleb Williams could climb the quarterback rankings and prove he’s ready to lead the Bears. Because beyond nail color or wristbands, what matters is how you show up on the field. And Williams, with or without accessories, has already made it clear—he’s here to take charge.