When you think of the NFL, the first images that come to mind are usually the players, the stadiums, and the roar of the fans. But just as much a part of the league’s culture—though often less spotlighted—are the cheerleaders.
Their role has evolved dramatically over the decades, reflecting not only shifts within the sport itself but also changes in American culture, entertainment, and gender dynamics.
Cheerleading has its roots in college football, beginning in the late 19th century. At first, it wasn’t even a female pursuit—male students led cheers from the sidelines to rally school spirit. Women didn’t begin to dominate cheerleading until the 1920s and 1930s, and even then it was seen more as an extension of school spirit than a professional performance role.
When the NFL began incorporating cheerleaders in the 1950s and 60s, the role quickly became less about leading chants and more about entertainment. The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, introduced in 1972, were a turning point.
They redefined what it meant to be an NFL cheerleader by moving away from the more traditional, collegiate style and embracing a performance-driven, glamorous image. Their high-energy routines, elaborate uniforms, and national television appearances turned them into cultural icons, and other NFL teams soon followed suit.
From then on, cheerleaders were viewed not only as part of the game-day experience but also as ambassadors for their teams. They participated in community events, visited military bases, and appeared in media campaigns. Over the years, the role became a blend of athleticism and showmanship, with cheerleaders expected to maintain peak physical fitness and perform at a professional level.
Of course, the role hasn’t been without controversy. Debates over pay, working conditions, and how cheerleaders are portrayed have made headlines, especially in recent decades.
Some former cheerleaders have spoken out about unfair treatment and wage disparities, sparking discussions about labor rights in professional sports. On the other hand, many cheerleaders emphasize the pride they feel in representing their teams, the opportunities the role provides, and the camaraderie of being part of a squad.
Today, NFL cheerleading continues to evolve. Teams have begun expanding the definition of who can be a cheerleader—most notably with the inclusion of male dancers in recent years. There’s also been a push to highlight the athletic demands of the role, emphasizing the skill, strength, and discipline it requires rather than focusing solely on image.
In many ways, the story of NFL cheerleaders mirrors broader cultural conversations about gender, work, and representation. They’ve been seen as entertainers, athletes, and ambassadors, all while standing at the intersection of sports and performance. While the NFL itself has changed dramatically over the decades, cheerleaders have remained a constant presence on the sidelines—always visible, often debated, and undeniably part of the league’s identity.
There’s much more to being an NFL cheerleader than just performing on the sidelines during a game. What fans see on Sundays is only a fraction of the role. Behind the scenes, cheerleaders are often deeply involved in their team’s broader presence, both locally and globally.
First, there’s the community work. NFL cheerleaders frequently attend charity events, visit schools, and make appearances at fundraisers, hospitals, and youth programs. These appearances can happen multiple times a week, and they are just as much a part of the job as dancing on game day. In many cases, cheerleaders serve as some of the most visible representatives of their teams, helping to build goodwill and connection with the fan base.
There’s also the international aspect. NFL cheerleaders often travel overseas as part of goodwill tours, especially to perform for U.S. military troops stationed abroad. For many, these opportunities are career highlights, combining performance with service and outreach.
The job also demands a great deal of personal discipline. Most NFL cheerleaders balance their cheer commitments with full-time careers, school, or family life, since being a cheerleader is usually a part-time position. They’re expected to maintain rigorous fitness levels, rehearse multiple times a week, and often adhere to strict codes of conduct that extend beyond the stadium.
On top of that, many teams produce annual calendars or media features that involve photo shoots, interviews, and promotional appearances. This side of the role adds another layer of responsibility—requiring professionalism, poise, and the ability to represent the brand both on and off the field.
So while the halftime routines and sideline performances are the most visible part, the real scope of being an NFL cheerleader is much broader. They’re performers, community ambassadors, spokespeople, and role models—all rolled into one.
A “DAY IN THE LIFE” OF AN NFL CHEERLEADER REALLY SHOWS JUST HOW MUCH GOES INTO THE ROLE BEYOND THE BRIGHT LIGHTS OF GAME DAY. WHILE EVERY TEAM HAS ITS OWN SCHEDULE AND STRUCTURE, HERE’S A REALISTIC SNAPSHOT OF WHAT A TYPICAL DAY (OR WEEK) MIGHT LOOK LIKE:
Morning – Balancing Work or School
Most NFL cheerleaders have careers or are full-time students since cheerleading is considered a part-time role. A cheerleader might start the day heading to her office job, teaching, or attending classes at a university. This means she’s already juggling responsibilities long before practice or appearances even begin.
Afternoon – Community or Media Appearances
On certain days, cheerleaders attend community outreach events arranged by the team. This could be visiting a children’s hospital, attending a school pep rally, participating in a charity walk, or representing the team at a sponsor’s promotional event. They may also be called in for interviews, photo shoots, or calendar work, depending on the time of year. These appearances require a polished, professional image since cheerleaders act as team ambassadors.
Evening – Practice
Practices are often held several evenings a week, lasting anywhere from three to five hours. During these sessions, squads work on choreography, learn new routines, condition with cardio and strength exercises, and refine their timing to match the game-day environment. Practices can be intense, requiring the same stamina and precision as professional dancers or athletes.
Game Day – A Whole Production
On game day, the schedule starts hours before kickoff. Cheerleaders arrive early for hair, makeup, and warm-ups, often going through multiple routines and final run-throughs before the crowd even enters the stadium. During the game, they perform on the sidelines, dance during breaks, and keep energy levels high for fans throughout all four quarters. After the final whistle, there’s usually still a meet-and-greet, autograph signing, or media responsibility.
Off the Field – Personal Maintenance
Outside of official duties, cheerleaders also spend time training individually. They keep up fitness routines, practice flexibility, and maintain the athletic look and endurance the role demands. They’re often asked to follow specific health, grooming, and professionalism guidelines to uphold their team’s image.
Being an NFL cheerleader is a balancing act. It’s not just about showing up and performing; it’s about constantly being “on”—as a performer, a professional, and a public representative of the team. Many cheerleaders describe it as demanding but incredibly rewarding, because it blends their love of dance and performance with community involvement and the chance to be part of something bigger than themselves.
THE OFFSEASON IS OFTEN JUST AS BUSY, THOUGH IN DIFFERENT WAYS, FOR NFL CHEERLEADERS. WHILE FANS MIGHT ASSUME THEIR WORK ENDS WITH THE SEASON FINALE OR THE SUPER BOWL, IN REALITY, THE ROLE KEEPS GOING YEAR-ROUND. HERE’S HOW IT USUALLY UNFOLDS:
Auditions and Training Camps
The offseason often begins with auditions for the upcoming season. These are highly competitive, multi-round events that can stretch over several weeks. Dancers go through fitness tests, interviews, and choreography challenges, with hundreds of hopefuls competing for only a handful of spots.
For returning cheerleaders, this means re-trying out to secure their place on the team. Those who make the cut then enter training camp, where squads begin to gel, refine their style, and set the standard for the season ahead.
Community Appearances and Team Events
Even without games, NFL cheerleaders remain active in their communities. Teams continue to schedule appearances at charity events, sponsor promotions, schools, and civic activities throughout spring and summer. In some cases, cheerleaders may also represent the NFL at larger national events or make appearances tied to the team’s brand.
Photo Shoots and Media Projects
The offseason is often when teams produce their annual calendars, promotional content, or social media campaigns. Cheerleaders may spend long days at photo shoots—sometimes in exotic locations—working with photographers, stylists, and media crews. These projects often serve as major fundraisers or promotional materials for the team.
International Tours and Military Visits
The offseason is also prime time for cheerleaders to travel abroad. Many squads take part in NFL goodwill tours, especially visiting U.S. military bases overseas. These trips can involve performances, meet-and-greets, and morale-building events. For many cheerleaders, this is one of the most meaningful aspects of their role.
Personal and Professional Development
Since cheerleading is part-time, the offseason allows members to refocus on careers, school, or personal goals. Some may be pursuing degrees, working full-time jobs, or even running businesses alongside their cheer commitments. Offseason also means maintaining top physical condition, so most continue dance training, gym workouts, and nutrition routines to be ready for the demanding schedule when the season starts again.
So while fans only see cheerleaders in action during the games, the truth is that their role is constant—flowing from auditions to community involvement, media work, and international outreach, even in months when the stadium is empty. In many ways, the offseason is where the foundation of the next season is built.
The Types of People Drawn to NFL Cheerleading
NFL cheerleaders come from diverse backgrounds, but most share a strong passion for dance, performance, and community involvement. Many have years—even decades—of dance, gymnastics, or cheer experience before they ever try out. You’ll often find:
Dancers and former athletes – Many have backgrounds in ballet, jazz, hip hop, or collegiate cheerleading. Some were gymnasts or even competitive figure skaters.
College graduates and professionals – Cheerleaders often have careers as teachers, nurses, engineers, marketing specialists, or entrepreneurs. The role is part-time, so balancing it with a full-time career is common.
Students – Some are pursuing higher education while cheering, using the experience as both an outlet for passion and a platform for networking.
Community-minded individuals – Many are motivated not just by performing, but also by the outreach work, from visiting schools to traveling to military bases.
It’s not just about being able to dance—it’s about being poised, articulate, reliable, and a strong representative of the team both on and off the field.
HOW HARD IS IT TO BECOME AN NFL CHEERLEADER?
In short: extremely hard. Becoming an NFL cheerleader is one of the most competitive opportunities in professional dance and performance. Here’s why:
High Competition
Hundreds—sometimes thousands—of people audition for squads that may only have 30–40 spots. Even returning members often have to re-audition every year, so no one’s guaranteed a place.
Multi-Step Auditions
Auditions can last weeks. They often begin with open calls where candidates perform short routines, then move into multiple rounds that test dance ability, memory, physical fitness, and charisma. Finalists usually go through interviews, panel questions, and sometimes even public votes before selections are made.
Demanding Standards
Teams look for performers who can handle high-intensity choreography while smiling and maintaining stamina. Physical fitness is important, but so is the ability to project confidence and enthusiasm.
Professionalism Beyond Performance
Interviews are a major component. Cheerleaders are expected to speak confidently, interact with the public, and handle media. Teams want well-rounded individuals who reflect positively on the organization.
Commitment and Time
Once selected, cheerleaders dedicate multiple evenings a week to rehearsals, countless weekends to appearances, and full days to games. All of this is while balancing jobs, school, and personal life.
So while from the stands it may look effortless, the reality is that these squads are made up of individuals who have trained for years, beaten the odds in grueling auditions, and proven they can handle both the performance and ambassadorial aspects of the role. It’s no exaggeration to say becoming an NFL cheerleader is as competitive and demanding as landing a spot on a professional dance team or stage production.
The role of an NFL cheerleader isn’t just about dance and performance—it also comes with a strict set of rules and expectations. Each team has its own handbook, but there are some general guidelines that most squads follow, covering professionalism, appearance, and conduct. These rules can be surprisingly detailed and demanding. Here’s an overview:
Professional Conduct
Ambassadorship – Cheerleaders are expected to represent the team in a positive and professional manner at all times, both in uniform and outside of appearances.
Social Media Guidelines – Many teams have strict rules about what can and can’t be posted online. Cheerleaders must avoid controversial posts and often need to maintain a “family-friendly” image.
Confidentiality – Some rules prevent cheerleaders from discussing team operations, internal issues, or certain experiences publicly.
Appearance and Grooming
Uniform Standards – Cheerleaders must keep their uniforms in perfect condition. Uniforms are usually considered property of the team and cannot be worn outside of official events without permission.
Hair and Makeup – Many teams provide specific guidelines for hair (length, style, and color) and makeup (tones, level of glamour). The idea is to maintain a consistent and polished look across the squad.
Fitness and Body Maintenance – Cheerleaders are often required to maintain a certain level of physical conditioning, and some teams conduct periodic weigh-ins or fitness checks.
Performance and Rehearsals
Mandatory Practices – Rehearsals are non-negotiable, and absences typically require advance approval. Missing practices or showing up unprepared can jeopardize a spot on the team.
Performance Standards – Cheerleaders must memorize routines quickly, maintain energy, and project enthusiasm regardless of weather or game conditions.
Behavioral Expectations
No Fraternization with Players – One of the most common and strict rules is prohibiting cheerleaders from dating, socializing, or fraternizing with NFL players. Violations of this rule have historically led to dismissal.
Punctuality – Being late to rehearsals, appearances, or game-day call times is taken very seriously.
Code of Conduct in Public – Whether in uniform or not, cheerleaders are expected to act respectfully in public, avoiding anything that could bring negative attention to themselves or the team.
Commitment Outside Games
Community Events – Participation in charity events, sponsor promotions, and fan meet-and-greets is usually mandatory.
Travel – Cheerleaders may be required to travel locally and sometimes internationally, representing their team at appearances or on military tours.
These rules may sound strict, but they’re designed to maintain a professional, polished image for the team. That said, they’ve also been the subject of debate—some critics argue that the expectations can be overly restrictive or outdated, while supporters say they reinforce professionalism and high standards.
WHILE NFL CHEERLEADERS ARE ICONIC AND BELOVED BY MANY FANS, THEIR ROLE HAS ALSO SPARKED A LOT OF DEBATE AND CONTROVERSY OVER THE YEARS. THESE DEBATES TOUCH ON PAY, TREATMENT, IMAGE, AND ESPECIALLY THEIR UNIFORMS AND HOW THEY’RE PERCEIVED.
Pay and Labor Rights
For a long time, one of the biggest criticisms of NFL cheerleading was pay. Many squads were making only a few hundred dollars per game, despite hours of rehearsals, mandatory appearances, and the strict standards they had to uphold. Lawsuits were filed in the 2010s by cheerleaders from several teams, arguing that they were being underpaid and sometimes not even compensated for community appearances or rehearsals. Some claimed that when you divided pay by hours worked, it came out to less than minimum wage.
These lawsuits led to settlements and some reforms, but the issue raised awareness about how the NFL—one of the wealthiest sports leagues in the world—valued its cheerleaders.
Today, conditions have improved for many squads, though not all. Pay is still a hot topic whenever the role is discussed publicly.
Rules and Restrictions
Some of the strict rules—such as no fraternization with players, maintaining certain body standards, or following detailed grooming requirements—have also drawn criticism. Opponents say these expectations can be demeaning and controlling, while supporters argue that they’re about professionalism and image consistency. The debate often circles around whether these rules are fair for adults who already work demanding schedules outside of cheerleading.
Uniforms and Image
This is perhaps the most visible and controversial topic. NFL cheerleader uniforms are often small, form-fitting, and designed to emphasize glamour and sex appeal. Critics argue that:
The uniforms are too revealing and objectify women, reinforcing stereotypes rather than celebrating athletic skill.
The image can overshadow the athleticism and hard work the dancers put into their routines.
It can send mixed messages when cheerleaders are marketed as role models in schools and communities while appearing in outfits some view as too provocative.
On the other side, many cheerleaders themselves have pushed back against this criticism, saying:
They take pride in their uniforms as part of a long tradition that represents empowerment, confidence, and showmanship.
They don’t see themselves as objectified, but as strong women making their own choices to be performers in a role that demands skill, poise, and dedication.
The uniforms are a part of the entertainment aspect of the NFL—similar to how performers in dance troupes, figure skating, or gymnastics wear performance-focused outfits.
This clash of perspectives shows how cheerleading sits at the crossroads of sports, performance, and culture.
Changing the Role
In recent years, some NFL teams have started modernizing their approach:
Co-ed squads – A few teams now include male dancers and breakdancers.
Alternative uniforms – Some teams have experimented with different styles that are less traditional “tiny” cheer outfits, while still performance-friendly.
Highlighting athleticism – More emphasis is being placed on the skill, artistry, and conditioning behind the performances, helping reframe cheerleaders as athletes as well as entertainers.
So, while the controversies remain, the conversation is evolving. Many fans still love the glamour and tradition of cheerleading as part of the NFL game-day experience, while others call for reforms that focus more on athleticism, fair pay, and modern representation. In a way, the debate about cheerleaders mirrors larger cultural conversations about gender, image, and work in American society.
IT’S JUST AS TRUE THAT MANY NFL CHEERLEADERS DESCRIBE THEIR TIME ON A SQUAD AS ONE OF THE MOST REWARDING EXPERIENCES OF THEIR LIVES.
The positive side often gets overshadowed, but hearing what cheerleaders themselves say helps explain why so many people work so hard to make it onto a team.
Passion for Dance and Performance
At its core, NFL cheerleading is about performing. Many cheerleaders have been dancing since childhood, competing in studios, on college teams, or in professional troupes. Joining an NFL squad gives them a stage unlike any other—performing in front of 60,000 fans and millions more on TV. The adrenaline of game day, the roar of the crowd, and the chance to showcase polished routines on such a massive platform is something few other opportunities can match.
Sisterhood and Camaraderie
Cheerleaders often describe their teammates as family. The hours spent practicing, traveling, and performing together create deep bonds. Former members frequently say the friendships they made outlast the experience itself. Many compare it to being part of a tight-knit athletic team where everyone shares the same passion, discipline, and drive.
Community Involvement
For a lot of cheerleaders, the outreach work is the most meaningful part. Visiting children in hospitals, speaking at schools, working with charities, and traveling to military bases gives them a chance to inspire and uplift others. They become role models in a very direct, personal way, and many say these moments stick with them far more than any halftime performance.
Personal Growth and Confidence
The role pushes individuals out of their comfort zones. Auditioning in front of judges, speaking to the media, balancing high-level dance performance with professional careers—all of this builds confidence, poise, and life skills. Many cheerleaders say the discipline they developed carries into their careers, relationships, and personal lives long after they leave the squad.
Opportunities and Experiences
Cheerleaders get to do things most people only dream about—performing at the Super Bowl, traveling internationally, appearing on national TV, or meeting inspiring people during community tours. The visibility of the role can also open doors in entertainment, modeling, business, and media.
Empowerment
Perhaps the most important thing to note is how many cheerleaders reject the idea that they’re being objectified. Instead, they describe their role as empowering. They see themselves as strong, disciplined women who have earned the right to perform on one of the biggest stages in sports. To them, the uniform and the spotlight represent pride and accomplishment rather than exploitation.
So while being an NFL cheerleader is demanding, controversial, and sometimes misunderstood, those who do it often treasure the experience. They see it as a once-in-a-lifetime chance to combine their love of performance with service, friendship, and personal growth.
NFL cheerleaders have always occupied a unique space in the world of sports. From their beginnings as spirit leaders in the early days of football to the glamorous, high-profile squads of today, their evolution has mirrored broader cultural shifts.
What started as a role centered on chants and crowd engagement transformed into a polished form of entertainment, and then into something even larger—an ambassadorial position that blends performance, community service, and representation.
Of course, their journey has not been without controversy. Debates about pay, treatment, strict rules, and the revealing nature of their uniforms have sparked important conversations about fairness, respect, and gender roles in professional sports.
For some, the role can appear outdated or problematic; for others, it is a source of pride, empowerment, and personal achievement. These tensions have fueled ongoing changes, from improved working conditions to co-ed squads and a stronger focus on athleticism.
Yet, despite the challenges, what consistently shines through is the passion of the cheerleaders themselves. They describe the experience as exhilarating and transformative: performing in front of massive crowds, building lifelong friendships, uplifting communities, and serving as symbols of energy and spirit for their teams. For many, it is not simply a job—it’s a dream realized, a stage to showcase talent, and a platform to make a difference.
In the end, NFL cheerleaders remain an essential part of the league’s identity. They are performers, athletes, ambassadors, and role models, balancing the glitz and glamour of game day with the grit of hard work and commitment behind the scenes. Their story is one of tradition and change, challenge, and celebration, but above all, it is about the enduring power of spirit, performance, and human connection.
IF YOU’D LIKE TO DIVE DEEPER, HERE ARE SOME SOLID PLACES TO EXPLORE:
Books and Documentaries
- A History of Cheerleading by Natalie Guice Adams and Pamela J. Bettis – Covers the evolution of cheerleading, including professional squads.
- America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders and the Making of an American Icon – Focuses on the most famous NFL squad and their cultural impact.
- Documentaries like Daughters of the Sexual Revolution: The Untold Story of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (2018) explore both the glamour and controversies.
News and Magazine Features
- Sports Illustrated, ESPN, and The Athletic have run in-depth stories on cheerleaders’ working conditions, lawsuits, and evolving roles.
- New York Times and Washington Post have covered controversies around pay and uniforms.
Official NFL and Team Websites
- Each NFL team’s website usually has a cheerleader section with bios, appearances, and news.
- The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders site is especially detailed, given their iconic status.
Academic and Cultural Perspectives
- Scholarly articles in journals like Sociology of Sport Journal and Journal of Sport and Social Issues analyze cheerleading in terms of gender, labor, and culture.
- University libraries or Google Scholar can be helpful if you want more of the sociological side.
First-Person Accounts and Blogs
- Former cheerleaders sometimes share experiences on personal blogs or YouTube channels, giving insight into what the day-to-day life is really like.
- Social media accounts of current squads can also give you a sense of the balance between performance, outreach, and media work.