Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams has hit a roadblock in his effort to trademark his well-known nickname, “Iceman” — a moniker that speaks to his ability to stay composed under pressure.
The United States Patent and Trademark Office rejected Williams’ application, pointing to a possible conflict with an existing trademark filed back in 1988 by LaCrosse Footwear, an Oregon-based company, for a line of insulated boots.
In a refusal letter sent to Williams on June 24, the USPTO stated, “These marks are identical in appearance, sound and meaning.”
Despite the denial, the decision is not set in stone. Williams has the right to appeal or challenge the ruling. According to a thorough review conducted by Gerben Law, nearly two-thirds of all trademark applications submitted since January 1 have faced an initial rejection.
Williams had sought broad exclusive branding rights through his “Iceman” trademark application, covering a wide range of products including clothing, water bottles, sunglasses, trading cards, bags, footballs, and other football-related merchandise and apparel.
There may still be a path forward for Williams and his legal team. A closer look at LaCrosse’s product lineup suggests the “Iceman” boot line is no longer being actively sold, which could open the door for Williams’ attorneys to negotiate or rework his existing trademark application.
