Caleb Williams, the USC quarterback, has been the unanimous No. 1 overall choice in the 2024 NFL Draft for what feels like years. Some consider him a generational prospect.
That terrain carries a lot of uncertainty. Although Williams’ brilliance is evident, any slip, poor throw, or negative word to the media drags Williams’ detractors out of hiding.
Caleb Williams is highly rated quarterback
Monday, those people put a lot of fuel to the fire. Yes, that’s Williams with the pink phone and painted nails.
Caleb Williams in the building to watch the JuJu Watkins show
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) March 26, 2024
Of course, every Williams skeptic rose from their slumbers to express their concerns about Williams’ “conduct.”
How could someone with painted nails become a good NFL player? Can someone who does not always exude masculinity command an NFL locker room?
The most pressing question was obviously, “Why does this matter at all?” Given the widespread and negative reaction on social media, it may be time for a reminder.
Williams has painted his nails for quite a while
Although some critics refer to Williams’ painted nails as a way to detract from his talent, he has used his nails as a form of expression for years, including the 2022-23 college football season when he won the Heisman Trophy.
In fact, this isn’t the first time someone have pointed to his nails as a method to diminish his performance on the field. Williams faced outrage after painting the words “F**k Utah” on his nails ahead to the 2022 Pac-12 Championship game, as his Trojans were unable to back up that emotion and lost the game. Williams has since toned down the inscriptions on his nails, but he continues to decorate them as a way to remember his mother, who has always worked as a nail technician.
However, given the manner he honors his mother is considered feminine, he definitely lacks the skills to be an NFL quarterback.
Caleb Williams starting a trend?
Those painted nails are intended to honor his mother, and no one in the NFL would try to stand between a guy and his family. That bond is precious, and insulting someone for paying tribute to the person who nurtured them is generally frowned upon in NFL circles.
Fashion is constantly changing. It is becoming fashionable for males to wear jewelry. This was not always the case. Now, unique forms of expression are common throughout the league.
Just because it’s unconventional doesn’t imply Williams has instantly gone from “generational talent” to “most obvious bust of all-time.”
