Tag: NFL cheerleaders

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Introducing the Newest Rookies of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders

The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders are gearing up for an exciting new season with the addition of six talented rookies to their squad. On July 17, 2025, the team proudly announced the newcomers: Brenley Herrera, Maddy Unger, Jenna Waller, Morgan Perschy, Parker Kilpatrick, and Faith Ward. Each of these athletes brings a unique background and passion for cheerleading, promising to contribute to the legacy of one of the NFL’s most iconic cheerleading teams.

Charly Barby, a member from the previous season, took to Instagram to celebrate the new recruits. “OUR TEAM 🥹🩷,” she expressed. “6 perfect hardworking amazing & dedicated DCC ROOKIES!!!!!! So incredibly deserving. What an amazing summer & an even better season to start!!!! A night everyone will remember forever. I couldn’t love this team more if I tried ⭐️.”

The announcement comes on the heels of a significant transformation within the cheerleading squad, as they continue to advocate for better working conditions and compensation. In the season finale of Netflix’s *America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders*, it was revealed that the cheerleaders received a remarkable “400 percent” salary increase, a change that reflects the hard work and dedication of the women who came before them.

Brenley Herrera, a former cheerleader from Texas Tech University, expressed her excitement on social media, stating, “I’m still at a complete loss for words. But I’m so honored and excited to announce that I’m officially a DALLAS COWBOYS CHEERLEADER!!!!!! ⭐️ This journey couldn’t have happened the way it did without the most incredible people in my life.” She continued, “This is truly such an amazing honor, and I want to thank the Cowboys Organization for giving me this life-changing opportunity. I now get to cheer for AMERICAN’S TEAM!!!!! This Texas girl’s heart just might explode. 🥺”

Maddy Unger, who previously cheered for the University of Nebraska, also shared her joy, stating that she was “overwhelmed with gratitude & SO excited” about the opportunity. Jenna Waller, a recent graduate from the University of Oklahoma, brings her own cheerleading experience to the team, while Morgan Perschy, who graduated Summa Cum Laude from Arizona State University, adds her academic excellence to the mix.

Parker Kilpatrick, a former cheerleader at the University of Texas, has prior experience with the Dallas Cowboys Rhythm & Blue team, which is notable for being the first and only co-ed dance crew and drumline in the NFL. Finally, Faith Ward stands out as the first New Zealand native to be named a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, boasting a significant following of over 200,000 on TikTok.

Faith shared her journey on Instagram, stating, “This journey has been incredibly challenging, both physically and mentally, but I wouldn’t change a thing! I’ve been pushed in ways I never imagined, I’ve learned and grown so much already. I’m excited to see where this wild ride takes me! I feel so privileged to stand alongside not only the most talented dancers but also some of the most amazing women I’ve ever met.”

The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders are renowned not only for their dance skills but also for their commitment to excellence and community involvement. As these six rookies step into their new roles, they join a legacy that has inspired countless fans and aspiring cheerleaders across the nation.

With the upcoming season, the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders are poised to showcase their talent, dedication, and the vibrant spirit that defines them. Fans can look forward to seeing these new members light up the field and contribute to the team’s storied history, all while enjoying the support and camaraderie that comes with being part of this elite squad.

As the excitement builds for the upcoming season, one thing is clear: the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders continue to be a symbol of empowerment and excellence, welcoming new talent while honoring the traditions that have made them a beloved part of America’s Team.

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Behind the Scenes NFL Cheerleader Salaries Unveiled

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.

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