Caleb Williams' Future Sneaker Deal Will Be Important

Caleb Williams can play it safe with Nike or shake up the footwear industry before the NFL Draft.

Barring an unforeseen change, it appears that Caleb Williams will be the first quarterback selected in the 2024 NFL Draft. Whether it is the Chicago Bears playing it safe by picking the former Heisman Trophy winner or another team trading up, Williams will most likely be the first quarterback off the big board.

However, what is not so certain is the brand of cleats Williams will wear in the NFL. During his time with the USC Trojans, Williams wore Nike on the field but did not limit himself to other brands off the gridiron. In fact, we saw Williams rock a wide array of adidas sneakers in casual settings.

Earlier this week, Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network filmed a video of the top-ranked quarterback working out ahead of the April draft. With all eyes on Williams' feet, he wore a pair of Nike Foamposite cleats in the 'Galaxy' colorway. Check out the social media post below for a more detailed look.

Potential #1 NFL Draft pick Caleb Williams is spotted training in “Galaxy” Nike Foamposite cleats 🌌 @CALEBcsw pic.twitter.com/WGtknyKqt0

— Nice Kicks (@nicekicks) January 15, 2024

2024 is a year of significant free agents in the footwear industry, and Williams is among the more popular players who could change the course of sneaker history. Over the past 15 years, Nike and Jordan Brand have had a lock on the top quarterbacks drafted. 

Trevor Lawrence, who signed with adidas in 2021, and Cam Newton, who signed with Under Armour in 2011, are the only quarterbacks in recent history that have bucked the trend of signing with the Swoosh.

It is nearly impossible to tell if a great college quarterback will be equally impactful in the NFL. But there is no doubt that Williams is wise beyond his years when it comes to marketing and business. The 22-year-old had a $2.7 million NIL Valuation, according to On3.

Williams can play it safe and sign with Nike or bet on his own ability to move the needle with consumers. But it would also require a smaller brand to be willing to make a major bet on an undrafted player. Stay locked into FanNation Kicks to follow this exciting story and for all your footwear news from the sports world.

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