The Netflix docuseries *America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders* has recently brought NFL cheerleaders into the spotlight, especially during the offseason. As fans tune in, one burning question arises: How much do these dedicated performers actually earn? The answer, it turns out, is not as glamorous as many might think.
NFL cheerleaders are classified as contract workers, which means they do not receive a full-time salary from their teams. Instead, their pay is based on a per-game or hourly rate. This often requires them to juggle second jobs to make ends meet. For instance, Kelcey Wetterberg, a group leader, works as a pediatric nurse, while rookie Reece Allman is employed at a flower shop.
While it’s rumored that cheerleaders for the Dallas Cowboys earn around $75,000 annually, testimonials from current and former cheerleaders tell a different story. Kat Puryear, a former Cowboys cheerleader, compared her earnings to that of a substitute teacher, indicating that it was more akin to a fast-food worker’s salary. According to a 2017 ESPN report, NFL cheerleaders averaged about $150 per game, with additional compensation for practice and public appearances, totaling around $22,500 annually. However, Cowboys cheerleaders reportedly earn about $500 per game, as noted in a 2022 NBC Boston report.
The demanding nature of their schedule is another factor that complicates their earnings. The series highlights a particularly grueling stretch in December 2023, where Cowboys cheerleaders worked for 21 consecutive days, all while managing their outside employment. The exact figures remain elusive, even to the series director, Greg Whiteley, who noted that pay can vary based on seniority within the group. Some cheerleaders, particularly group leaders, may earn more, but the specifics are often unclear.
In a significant development, several Cowboys cheerleaders petitioned for higher pay during the 2024-2025 season and succeeded in advocating for a 400% pay increase. Jada McLean, a cheerleader, shared that this change would alleviate financial stress for many of the women on the team, allowing them to focus more on their performance than their bills.
The pay structure for NFL cheerleaders has faced scrutiny and legal challenges over the years. In 2014, former Oakland Raiders cheerleader Lacy Thibodeaux-Fields filed a class-action lawsuit against the NFL for wage theft and gender discrimination, claiming she earned only $1,250 for an entire season. Another former cheerleader from the Buffalo Bills reported making just $105 for the season, while also having to pay $600 for her uniform.
By 2020, ten of the NFL’s 32 franchises were embroiled in lawsuits concerning cheerleader pay. Thibodeaux-Fields’ lawsuit prompted an investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor, revealing that Raiders cheerleaders were earning around $5 per hour, significantly below California’s minimum wage at the time.
When comparing the earnings of NFL cheerleaders to other game-day staff, the disparity becomes even more apparent. NFL players command astronomical salaries, with Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow set to earn $65.7 million in 2024. In contrast, waterboys and mascots earn between $50,000 to $60,000 per year, and they are full-time employees entitled to benefits and holidays—perks that cheerleaders do not typically enjoy.
The landscape for NFL cheerleaders is changing, albeit slowly. The recent pay increases reflect a growing recognition of their hard work and dedication. As fans continue to cheer for their favorite teams, it’s essential to remember the commitment and sacrifices made by these athletes on the sidelines.
In conclusion, while NFL cheerleaders are often seen as glamorous figures, the reality is that their pay does not reflect the effort they put into their roles. With ongoing advocacy for better compensation and working conditions, the future may hold brighter prospects for these talented performers.