The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC) have long been considered the gold standard of professional cheerleading. Now, they’re getting paid more like it.
In a major development revealed during Episode 7 of Season 2 of Netflix’s America’s Sweethearts, the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders announced they’ve secured a 400% pay raise heading into the 2025 NFL season. It’s the most significant known pay increase in the history of NFL cheerleading—and it didn’t happen overnight.
“This is a drastic change,” said veteran cheerleader Jada McLean, who has spent five seasons on the DCC. “It’s going to give the women on this team something we’ve never had before—financial stability.”
The Numbers Behind the Raise
Exact figures are not disclosed on the show, and the Cowboys organization declined to confirm new pay rates. But in a rare move, McLean spoke openly to The New York Times, stating that in 2024 she earned $15 an hour and $500 per appearance. With the raise, she said experienced veterans could now make more than $75 an hour.
Game-day rates, rehearsal pay, and special appearance fees have also reportedly increased under the new structure. However, the team remains classified as part-time employees, meaning cheerleaders still don’t receive employer-provided health insurance.
The shift marks a huge leap from what former DCC Erica Wilkins said she earned back in 2017—roughly $7 an hour with no overtime and just $200 per game. Wilkins sued the Cowboys in 2018 for wage violations, and the case was settled out of court in 2019. While that sparked headlines, it didn’t immediately lead to major structural change. Until now.
The Fight for Fair Pay—And the Pressure to Stay Silent
While the cheerleaders wear the most famous uniform in the NFL, their role behind the scenes has long been one of underpaid athleticism and strict standards. The Netflix series shows the hours of rehearsal, public appearances, and intense scrutiny involved in making—and keeping—a spot on the squad. Many cheerleaders also juggle full-time jobs or school in addition to their DCC responsibilities.
In America’s Sweethearts, McLean and fellow veterans Armani Latimer, Chandi Dayle, and Megan McElaney are seen discussing the pay gap over meals, between practices, and ultimately with team management. Their willingness to speak up came with risk.
“There was fear,” Latimer says in one scene. “We knew what happened to other teams that tried this.”
She’s not exaggerating. In 2014, the Buffalo Jills—cheerleaders for the Buffalo Bills—were disbanded after pushing for better workplace protections. Other squads have faced lawsuits, disbandment, or contract restructuring that left cheerleaders with even fewer protections.
