NFL Players Spotlight Powerful Causes in 2025 “My Cause My Cleats” Campaign

The NFL’s annual “My Cause My Cleats” initiative returned in Weeks 12 and 13 of the 2025 season. It once again allowed players across the league to showcase the charities, social issues, and community missions closest to their hearts. Through bold custom designs, heartfelt tributes, and deeply personal messages, athletes used their cleats as storytelling canvases. They brought national attention to causes that extend far beyond the field.

A League-Wide Movement of Purpose and Personal Impact

Before kickoff each week, the league’s stars stepped onto the field in custom-painted cleats. These were dedicated to everything from mental health advocacy and cancer awareness to youth empowerment, fire safety, and animal rescue. As in previous years, every pair will be auctioned after use. The proceeds support the featured nonprofits and foundations.

At NRG Stadium on November 20, a vibrant pair worn by Dorian Williams (#42, Buffalo Bills) embodied the spirit of this campaign. It underscored the importance of using the game’s biggest platforms to amplify community voices. Similar scenes played out across stadiums nationwide, including Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. There, “My Cause My Cleats” branding stood prominently in the Raiders’ end zone.

Players Share Stories of Loss, Hope, and Healing

The personal motivations behind many designs made this year’s campaign especially powerful.

Derrick Nnadi, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)

In Kansas City, Chiefs defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi dedicated his cleats to AFSP, shining a light on suicide prevention and emotional support resources. His decision reflects his ongoing commitment to mental health causes, reminding fans that compassion and awareness save lives.

Dak Prescott , Colon Cancer Awareness & Faith Fight Finish Foundation

At AT&T Stadium, Dak Prescott’s cleats told a heartbreaking yet inspiring story. They honored his late mother Peggy, who passed away from colon cancer. Prescott integrated colon cancer awareness messaging alongside branding from his own Faith Fight Finish Foundation. The foundation aims to transform grief into purpose through cancer prevention, mental health programs, and youth support. This is a mission Prescott carries with unwavering dedication.

Patrick Mahomes ,  15 and the Mahomies Foundation

Meanwhile, Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes used his cleats to support the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation, which provides health, wellness, and community resources for children. Mahomes’ participation reinforces how athletes can use fame to drive meaningful change.

Empowering Youth and Strengthening Communities

Micah Parsons,  The Lionheart Foundation

Cowboys star Micah Parsons dedicated his cleats to The Lionheart Foundation, which delivers education and empowerment programs for incarcerated adults, at-risk youth, and caregivers. Through this initiative, Parsons promotes resilience, family unity, and community growth.

Myles Bryant,  Eaton Fire Collaborative

Patriots defensive back Myles Bryant used his cleats to raise awareness for the Eaton Fire Collaborative, supporting community safety and fire prevention, an often overlooked but essential cause.

A Season of Giving Back in Buffalo

The Buffalo Bills had one of the strongest campaign showings of 2025, with several players honoring causes deeply rooted in personal experience.

Dawson Knox,  P.U.N.T. Pediatric Cancer Collaborative

Tight end Dawson Knox once again spotlighted P.U.N.T., an organization supporting families facing pediatric cancer. Knox’s cleats continue to honor his late brother and reflect his long-standing dedication to children battling the disease.

Josh Allen, John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital

Bills quarterback Josh Allen continued his celebrated partnership with Oishei Children’s Hospital. This year, Allen’s cleats featured artwork created by 11 pediatric patients. This was in collaboration with Stadium Custom Kicks. Throughout the season, Allen also wore hats designed by patients and auctioned them. This effort raised thousands for the hospital’s critical care teams.

Ty Johnson, Same Here Global & Allegany County Animal Shelter

Running back Ty Johnson chose to represent two causes: Same Here Global, which advocates for mental health awareness, and the Allegany County Animal Shelter, demonstrating how NFL players can use their platform to support both human and animal welfare.

Rallying for Childhood Cancer Research

Texans quarterback Davis Mills continued his multi-year support of the Rally Foundation, which funds research for childhood cancer. His involvement highlights how sustained visibility can strengthen a long-term fight against devastating diseases that impact families worldwide.

A League United by Compassion

From personal tragedies to community ties, the 2025 “My Cause My Cleats” campaign reinforced one core truth. NFL players are more than athletes; they are advocates, leaders, and changemakers.

Through vivid artwork and powerful storytelling, this annual campaign continues to bridge football culture with social responsibility, reminding fans that the game’s biggest impact often happens far beyond the scoreboard.