NFL Stars Use Custom Cleats to Share Personal Stories and Support Charities
Every year, the NFL takes a step beyond the gridiron during Weeks 14 and 15, giving players a unique opportunity to showcase their passions and causes through the “My Cause My Cleats” campaign. This initiative allows players to wear custom-designed cleats that tell deeply personal stories, honor loved ones, or raise awareness for charitable organizations. It’s a powerful reminder that football is more than just a game—it’s a platform for change.
During V Week, which runs through December 15, the NFL’s partnership with the V Foundation highlights the fight against cancer. If you’re inspired by these stories, you can support cancer research by visiting V.org/donate.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba Honors a Fallen Friend
For Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, this year’s cleats carry a deeply personal meaning. His custom white Nike cleats honor Ryan Roberson, a close family friend who passed away in 2019 from Ewing’s sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer that forms in bones or soft tissues. The cleats feature Roberson’s name embedded in the Nike swoosh, the Little Warrior Foundation logo on the toe, and Smith-Njigba’s initials, “J$N,” on the tongue.
The Little Warrior Foundation, which supports research for Ewing’s sarcoma, is the organization Smith-Njigba chose to spotlight. “Losing Ryan to Ewing’s sarcoma was devastating, but it inspired me to fight for a future where kids like him have hope and better options,” Smith-Njigba said in a statement provided by Excel Sports Management. “I’m proud to support the Little Warrior Foundation in his memory.”
Adonai Mitchell Raises Awareness for Type 1 Diabetes
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Adonai Mitchell is using his cleats to shine a light on a cause that hits close to home. Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, Mitchell has become a passionate advocate for raising awareness about the condition, particularly for children. His lime green, teal, and light orange Adidas cleats feature the smiley-face logo of Children with Diabetes, an organization dedicated to educating and supporting families affected by Type 1 diabetes. The cleats also display the organization’s slogan within the iconic three-striped design.
“Living with Type 1 diabetes has taught me resilience and the importance of community,” Mitchell said in a statement provided by Excel Sports Management. “I want every child living with diabetes to know they are not alone and that we’re fighting together.”
Other Notable Cleats and Causes
While Smith-Njigba and Mitchell’s stories are particularly moving, they’re far from the only players using their cleats to make a difference. Here are a few more standout designs from this year’s “My Cause My Cleats” campaign:
- Terence Steele (Dallas Cowboys): Steele partnered with the Medal of Honor Museum to honor the sacrifices of U.S. service members.
- Damone Clark (Dallas Cowboys): Clark highlighted the South Baton Rouge Jaguars, a youth sports organization, to fuel support for young athletes.
- Kaden Elliss (Atlanta Falcons): Elliss teamed up with Georgia Kids Belong, an organization that supports foster children and families.
These cleats are more than just footwear—they’re a canvas for storytelling, a way for players to connect with fans, and a platform to amplify causes that matter to them. Whether it’s honoring a loved one, raising awareness for a disease, or supporting a community organization, the “My Cause My Cleats” campaign is a testament to the power of sports to inspire change.
How You Can Get Involved
Feeling inspired? You don’t have to be an NFL player to make a difference. Consider supporting one of the organizations highlighted by these players or finding a cause that resonates with you. And if you’re able, don’t forget to contribute to the V Foundation’s fight against cancer by visiting V.org/donate.
As the NFL season continues, these cleats remind us that the game is about more than touchdowns and tackles—it’s about using the spotlight to make the world a better place. So, the next time you see a player’s custom cleats, take a moment to learn the story behind them. You might just find yourself inspired to join the cause.
Originally Written by: Unknown
