Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Salary & Raise History
The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders have secured a meaningful pay raise after years of advocating for fair compensation. Read the full story detailing the cheerleaders’ journey, prominently featured in Netflix‘s “America’s Sweethearts,” and learn how thier dedication led to a 400% pay increase for the 2025-26 season. Discover past hourly rates, pivotal moments, and the challenges faced by thes dedicated athletes. Veteran cheerleaders are now earning over $75 an hour, a testament to their perseverance. News Directory 3 reports on how these women united, consulted legal teams, and ultimately achieved their financial goals. Their story highlights the struggle for fair compensation for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders and its impact. Discover what’s next for the cheerleaders.
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders secure Significant Pay Raise After Decades-Long Push
The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, spotlighted in Netflix’s “america’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders,” have achieved a major victory in their fight for fair compensation. The cheerleaders’ push for better pay, after years of being historically underpaid, is a key focus of the show’s second season.
In 2024,Charlotte Jones,the Cowboys’ chief brand officer,faced criticism for suggesting the cheerleaders where motivated by passion rather than money. A team spokesperson told Sports Illustrated that the organization covers game pay, practices, uniforms, some meals, health club memberships and salon services.
Despite earning more than other NFL cheerleaders, many dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders have voiced concerns about financial challenges. One dancer revealed she worked three jobs to support her cheerleading career.
In 2022, the cheerleaders earned $15 to $20 an hour, totaling about $500 per game and roughly $75,000 annually. Jada McLean, a five-year veteran, said she earned $15 an hour and $500 per appearance in 2024.
Episode 7 of Season 2 revealed a 400% raise for the 2025–26 season. McLean confirmed to The New York Times that veteran cheerleaders could now earn over $75 an hour. The franchise did not confirm the new wages.
“we pushed and we got back good results,” said Armani latimer, a five-year veteran. “I get emotional knowing that I was a part of that. I love the fact that I made change for the girls that are coming up behind me, even if I’m not getting a chance to benefit.”
Several veteran cheerleaders united to advocate for a pay increase, gaining national attention after the Netflix series premiered in 2024.
McLean and Latimer discussed their concerns with management but were initially told it was “not the time.” McLean told TIME.com that the cheerleaders consulted family members and alumni in the legal field and held meetings with the Cowboys’ HR and legal teams.
The team considered skipping practice or staging a walkout but decided against it. Head choreographer Judy Trammell acknowledged the need to fight for change.
At the 2024–25 end-of-year banquet, Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Director Kelli Finglass praised the dancers for their efforts.
“You guys have moved some mountains this year that will forever change our organization, and hopefully, dancers’ organizations across the world,” she said. “It’s just amazing, because that has been 60-plus years long overdue.”
What’s next
Season 2 of “America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders” continues to stream on Netflix, showcasing the journey and impact of the cheerleaders’ fight for fair compensation and the future of Dallas Cowboys cheerleading pay.