How Much Do Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Make? Inside the 2025 Pay Raise That’s Changing the NFL

There are very few symbols in American sports as iconic as the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders. For decades, they have represented not only the spirit of America’s Team, but also a sense of ambition and excellence that millions of fans admire. As someone who has followed the Cowboys all my life, I have always wondered, just like you might have, how much do Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders make? That question has finally taken center stage in 2025, thanks to a historic pay raise that is making waves not only in Dallas but across the entire NFL.

Let’s take a closer look at how this pay raise happened, what it means, and why it matters for fans and future cheerleaders everywhere.

Why Did the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Get a Pay Raise in 2025?

If you have been following Cowboys news, you know that the conversation around fair pay for cheerleaders is not new. For years, Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders have juggled intense practice schedules, public appearances, and game day performances with regular jobs just to make ends meet. This is despite the fact that the Cowboys, valued at over ten billion dollars by Forbes, remain the world’s most valuable sports franchise.

For a long time, pay for NFL cheerleaders was shockingly low. Some cheerleaders reported earning as little as seven dollars an hour for practices, and just a couple hundred dollars per game. It did not make sense, considering the physical effort, travel, and the high profile nature of their role. Many cheerleaders, past and present, spoke up about these challenges, and the pressure finally came to a head in 2025.

The result was a conversation between cheerleaders and team management that could not be ignored. For the first time, their voices led directly to action. The Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders were granted a major pay raise, signaling a new era for the team and for the NFL.

Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders 2025 Salary: How Much Do They Earn Now?

The big question fans are asking in 2025 is simple. How much do Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders make now?

Thanks to the changes this year, the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders salary has seen an incredible increase. While the team has not officially released every detail, multiple reports from sources like Dallas Morning News and USA Today suggest that cheerleaders are now making over sixteen hundred dollars per game. That is a massive leap from the previous four hundred dollars per game, which was the standard after the last adjustment in 2019.

To put it into perspective, a veteran cheerleader performing throughout the full NFL season can now make a salary that actually reflects the hard work, time, and dedication they invest. For the first time in years, cheerleaders say they do not have to rely on second jobs or side hustles to pay their bills. The change is described as life changing by many on the squad.

This pay structure finally brings the Cowboys cheerleaders closer to being compensated in line with the brand value and global reputation they help maintain for the franchise.

America’s Sweethearts on Netflix: How the Show Helped Bring Change

The timing of this pay raise was not random. The Netflix docuseries “America’s Sweethearts Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders” played a huge role in shining a spotlight on the realities faced by cheerleaders.

As a long time fan, I tuned in out of curiosity, but what I found was honest storytelling. The show let viewers inside the tough audition process, the relentless practice schedule, and the emotional highs and lows of being part of such an elite group. Most importantly, it showed the human side of the cheerleaders, reminding everyone that behind every dazzling performance is someone who is working hard and making sacrifices.

Netflix gave these women a voice and a national audience. Suddenly, their stories were on social media feeds and news outlets everywhere. The conversations that followed helped push management and the league to make real changes. It is not an exaggeration to say the show helped create the momentum that led to this pay raise.

What Do Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Really Do? Beyond Game Day

Many people think of cheerleaders as simply performing at halftime or leading cheers during touchdowns. The truth is, their role extends far beyond the field.

Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders are ambassadors for the team and the city. They represent the Cowboys at community events, charity fundraisers, school visits, and military bases. They spend countless hours volunteering and inspiring young fans. On top of that, they train constantly to maintain the level of performance and athleticism that the world expects from America’s Sweethearts.

Their work ethic is legendary, and the standards are sky high. Uniforms are custom made for each member, and there is a focus on health, fitness, and positive self image rather than outdated beauty standards. Every appearance and every routine is delivered with professionalism and pride.

It is no surprise that so many girls, including my own niece, dream of one day joining the team.

How the 2025 Salary Increase Impacts NFL Cheerleaders Nationwide

Dallas has always been a trendsetter in the NFL, and this pay raise is no exception. News of the new salary structure quickly spread across the league, leading to renewed discussions about how cheerleaders are valued in other cities.

Other teams are already facing questions from fans and the media. Why should cheerleaders in one city make significantly less than those in Dallas, when their responsibilities and time commitments are similar? This change in Dallas is likely to set a new standard, and I expect to see more NFL organizations updating their pay structures in the coming years.

This is not just a win for the Cowboys, but a win for every professional cheerleader who brings energy, pride, and heart to the NFL.

Why This Pay Raise Matters to Me and Other Fans

As a lifelong Cowboys fan, this news means more to me than just numbers on a page. I grew up watching the cheerleaders on the sidelines, learning their routines with friends, and being inspired by their confidence and presence.

For years, I heard stories about how much they gave up to be on the team. Missing holidays, sacrificing weekends, and always striving for perfection. It always bothered me to know that their pay did not reflect their commitment.

Hearing that cheerleaders are finally being paid fairly is a huge point of pride for our fan community. It shows that our voices, along with theirs, can make a difference. It also means that future generations of cheerleaders will have more opportunities and less financial stress as they pursue their dreams.

This pay raise feels like a long overdue thank you to the women who help make every Cowboys game day an experience to remember.

The Cheerleaders’ Legacy in Dallas

There is something special about seeing young fans, especially girls, light up when they meet a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader. My niece, who is just eight years old, looks up to them as heroes. She copies their dances, follows them on social media, and talks about being a cheerleader when she grows up.

Knowing that these role models are now being treated with the respect they deserve sends a powerful message. It tells young fans that hard work, teamwork, and passion are rewarded. It also strengthens the legacy of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders as not just performers, but as leaders in the world of sports and entertainment.

Their story is now one of empowerment and progress, and that is exactly the kind of legacy we should celebrate as fans.

FAQs

1. How much do Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders make in 2025?

As of this season, most reports indicate that Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders earn over sixteen hundred dollars per game. This is a major increase from previous years and puts them among the highest paid cheerleaders in the NFL.

2. Do Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders get paid for practices and appearances?

While the main focus is often on game day pay, cheerleaders are also compensated for required practices, appearances, and community events. The exact structure can vary, but the overall package in 2025 is much improved.

3. Who pays for the uniforms?

The organization provides custom made uniforms for each cheerleader, so members do not have to pay out of pocket for their signature blue and white outfits.

How hard is it to become a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader?

It is extremely competitive. The process includes open auditions, dance and fitness tests, interviews, and months of intense training. The Netflix series gives a real look at how challenging and rewarding the journey can be.

4. Why are Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders called America’s Sweethearts?

The nickname reflects their national popularity and status as cultural icons. Their blend of athleticism, style, and positivity has made them famous far beyond the football world.

Sources

– Netflix: America’s Sweethearts Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders
– Dallas Morning News: Dallas Cowboys news and updates
– USA Today: Dallas Cowboys coverage

If you are as excited as I am about this new chapter for Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, share your thoughts or favorite game day memory in the comments. And if you want to show your Cowboys spirit, check out our latest Cowboys fan collection for game days and beyond.

Let’s keep supporting the women who inspire us every season, both on and off the field!