Jeffery Simmons Calls Caleb Williams Nickname Past Trash Talk

Chicago Bears defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons has explained his controversial nickname for quarterback Caleb Williams, describing the remark as competitive trash talk rather than a personal attack. The comments, made Friday, October 30, 2026, come after Simmons joined Williams in Chicago following his departure from the Tennessee Titans.

Two years ago, when Simmons played for Tennessee, he referred to Williams as “Painted Nails” during an interview with NFL Network. Simmons also recalled expecting a strong reaction from Chicago supporters after making the comment.

Simmons said he believed Bears fans were “going to crash my Instagram” following the interview.

The relationship between the two players has since changed. Simmons and Williams are now teammates, and the defensive tackle said his competitive approach toward opponents differs from how he treats players wearing the same uniform.

Speaking through Jason Lieser of the Chicago Sun-Times, Simmons explained that he had respected Williams even when they played for opposing teams.

“I've been a fan of Caleb. Of course, being on the other side and having to play against him, I'm not going to tell him that. I'm going to talk as much smack as I can.

But now he's on my team. Any teammate you ask about me, man, I have my teammate's back, no matter if he's on the other side of the ball or not. I'm going to talk the most smack to you when you've got a different color jersey on, but when we're on the same team on Sundays, I go to war for any of my guys in the locker room.

I hope Caleb would know that,” Simmons said.

The two players have already had opportunities to discuss the earlier remarks. According to Simmons, they spoke following a joint practice in August and met again Friday morning before team meetings. Williams does not hold the previous comments against his new teammate.

Simmons also addressed the nickname directly, emphasizing that verbal exchanges have long been part of his approach to competing on the field.

“The comments a couple years ago about the nails is all part of my game, with the smack talk. I don't know if you guys have heard, but I'm probably one of the best smack talkers. I talk a lot of smack when I'm on the field.

I'm looking forward to being his teammate. We all know what type of player he is,” Simmons said.

The defensive tackle reiterated his enthusiasm about playing alongside Williams after previously competing against the quarterback. He also made clear that his commitment to supporting teammates extends throughout the Bears locker room, regardless of their positions on the field.