The NFL offseason is progressing toward the 2026 NFL Draft. Teams will soon begin their OTA periods as players return to football shape.
Some players have stayed busy this offseason—not just preparing for 2026, but also handling their business affairs.
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Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams recently filed a trademark for “Iceman.” The filing includes the silhouette of his 4th-and-8 pass against the Green Bay Packers.
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Some people appear to be taking exception to the move. NBA legend George Gervin recently spoke to ESPN and voiced his displeasure.
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May 27, 2013; Memphis, TN, USA; San Antonio Spurs former player George Gervin stands with current Spurs players and the Western Conference championship trophy after game four of the Western Conference finals of the 2013 NBA Playoffs against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedEx Forum. The Spurs won 93-86. Mandatory Credit: Rogelio V. Solis/Pool Photo-Imagn Images
The Original ‘Iceman’ Speaks
“I’ve been the Iceman for 40 something years,” Gervin told ESPN. “I never thought anybody would try to trademark it. He kind of knocked me out the box.”
The move reportedly caught Gervin off guard. He and his representatives responded by filing their own “Iceman” trademark and adding “Iceman 44” as well.
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Gervin’s fans have also voiced their displeasure. Most notably, television personality Skip Bayless defended Gervin, prompting a response from Caleb Williams.
Idc about where your fandom stands.
I was trying give you and everyone else the benefit of the doubt. About knowing business and being smart about it. But I guess not. Foolish of me!
Also words matter Skip Bayless.
“Steal”
Enjoy that podcast. https://t.co/PDMbllK1lx pic.twitter.com/fouK4A4zsz
— Caleb Williams (@CALEBcsw) March 27, 2026
The Big Lead previously spoke to trademark attorney Josh Gerben, who warned that timing is critical when filing trademarks.
“You’re basically a little, mini company walking around because you have so much influence in the world,” Gerben explained. “The way you protect that is with trademark filings.”
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Gervin has had more than 40 years to trademark the “Iceman” title and use it. Now, he may have to consider a lengthy, costly legal battle. Gerben previously explained that a quick trademark filing can serve as “insurance.”
Caleb Williams
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) looks downfield against the Green Bay Packers during the second half of an NFC Wild Card Round game at Soldier Field. Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
“You buy insurance, you spend a couple grand on it, you hope you never have to use it. But it’s a heck of a lot better than not buying insurance and spending a couple hundred grand.” Gerben told The Big Lead.
Does Gervin have a right to be upset over Williams’ quick move to file the trademark?
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