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Caleb Williams Uses MNF Manicure to Spotlight 988 Suicide Lifeline

The Bears quarterback delivered a widely seen mental-health message rooted in a personal nail-art tradition started with his mother.

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Caleb Williams #18 of the Chicago Bears looks to pass during the game against the Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field on September 08, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.
Caleb Williams' nails during a match against the Minnesota Vikings. (Getty)

Overview

  • Williams wore the suicide-prevention ribbon and colors on one hand and the numbers 988 on the other during the Sept. 8 season opener against the Vikings.
  • The timing aligned with Sept. 8 being observed as '988 Day' during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, drawing national attention to the lifeline.
  • Chicago nail artist Jeimy Lemus created the design and shared it on Instagram after WNBA star Angel Reese said she referred Williams to her nail tech.
  • Reaction online ranged from praise for the advocacy to ridicule and homophobic abuse directed at Williams, according to multiple outlets.
  • Chicago lost 27–24 after surrendering 21 fourth-quarter points; Williams went 21-of-35 for about 210–211 yards with one passing touchdown and a rushing score.