Cowboys Cheerleaders Score 400% Pay Raise

The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders are now earning $75 per hour, a 400% increase from their previous rate of $15-$20 per hour. This significant pay adjustment, approved ahead of the 2025-26 season, transforms the financial sustainability of the role.

Fourth-year member Megan McElaney described the raise as "life-changing," acknowledging that their advocacy efforts were heard. The substantial increase followed a period where contracts did not reflect the team's visibility and the cheerleaders' demands.

Leveraging the visibility from Netflix's docuseries, *America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders*, public attention grew regarding the cheerleaders' compensation. This external pressure, acknowledged by Charlotte Jones, the Cowboys' chief brand officer, helped address the long-standing disparity.

This pay hike, considered "60-plus years long overdue," sets a new benchmark for NFL cheerleaders, who historically earned significantly less than other sideline staff. The move is predicted to influence compensation expectations across the league.

The rigorous audition process and year-round commitments, including rehearsals and appearances, underscore the demands of the position. The foundational expectations for the squad, dating back to 1972, continue to shape the role under current leadership.