NFL players can face a $11,941 fine for a first offense and $23,882 for a second offense involving an unauthorized logo on their cleats in the 2026 season. However, wearing shoes from a brand outside the NFL’s approved partners does not automatically lead to a fine. The issue is whether unapproved branding remains visible.
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams received those amounts for consecutive violations involving Caddix cleats, according to reporting from NBC Chicago. Source: NBC Chicago
How Much Are NFL Fines for Unauthorized Shoe Logos?
The reported 2026 penalties for unauthorized footwear branding are:
| Violation | Fine |
|---|---|
| First offense | $11,941 |
| Second offense | $23,882 |
| Combined cost of both offenses | $35,823 |
These amounts concern unauthorized logos or branding. They should not be treated as a universal penalty for every type of footwear or uniform violation.
In Williams’ case, the second fine doubled the first. His two reported penalties totaled $35,823. Source: NBC Chicago
Which Shoe Brands Can NFL Players Wear?
Nike, Adidas and Under Armour have footwear partnerships with the NFL that permit approved branding to appear during games. Players wearing shoes from other manufacturers must cover or remove unapproved names and logos. Source: NBC Chicago
That means players have options beyond those three brands. The NFL’s own uniform inspection guidance explicitly allows other brands when the name or logo is removed or covered. Source: NFL Football Operations
Why Was Caleb Williams Fined for His Cleats?
Williams was fined $11,941 for displaying an unauthorized logo on his Caddix cleats during the Bears’ Week 6 game. He then received a $23,882 penalty for a second violation in Week 7. Source: NBC Chicago
The reported violation involved the visible Caddix branding. It illustrates the distinction between choosing a particular manufacturer’s footwear and displaying that manufacturer’s logo during an NFL game.
Can Players Avoid a Branding Violation by Covering the Logo?
Yes. NFL guidance says players may wear other brands as long as they remove or cover the name or logo. Concealing unapproved branding addresses that requirement, although the footwear must still comply with applicable equipment standards. Source: NFL Football Operations
Players should therefore check both the shoes themselves and any visible commercial identification before taking the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can NFL players wear cleats from unapproved brands?
Yes. NFL players may wear other brands if they remove or cover unapproved names and logos and comply with league equipment requirements.
What is the first-offense fine for an unauthorized shoe logo?
The reported first-offense amount for the 2026 season is $11,941.
How much is the second-offense fine?
The reported second-offense amount is $23,882, twice the first-offense amount.
Do NFL players get fined simply for wearing a different shoe brand?
No. Wearing another brand does not automatically trigger a branding fine. Leaving an unauthorized name or logo visible can lead to a penalty.
Are NFL cleat fines the same every season?
Readers should check the amounts for the relevant season. The figures in this article reflect reported penalties from 2026.
Updated October 30, 2026.