The NFL: Where Cheerleaders Earn a Fraction of What Players Do
The NFL is a multi-billion dollar industry, with players earning tens of millions of dollars per year. However, the same cannot be said for the cheerleaders who entertain the crowds during games. In fact, the pay structure for NFL cheerleaders is surprisingly low, with some teams paying their cheerleaders as little as $150 per game.
According to a 2022 report from NBC Sports Boston, Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders earn about $15-20 per hour or $500 per game, averaging out to $75,000 per year. However, this is significantly higher than what other NFL cheerleading teams pay. On average, NFL cheerleaders earn about $150 per game, or $22,500 per year.
NFL Cheerleaders
The pay structure for cheerleaders is based on a flat fee for games, plus an hourly wage on game day. Practices are also paid hourly. Additionally, appearances at local events are a flat fee plus an hourly rate, with the fees differing based on the cheerleader’s tenure with the team, which caps at five years.
Cheerleaders at a Game
It’s worth noting that being an NFL cheerleader is a part-time job, but it requires a full-time commitment. As former NFL cheerleader Puryear put it, “It’s like a full-time… full-time commitment, part-time pay.” Despite the low pay, many women aspire to become NFL cheerleaders due to the opportunity to perform in front of thousands of people and be part of a prestigious organization.
Daniel Muir, former NFL player
In other news, former NFL player Daniel Muir was arrested along with his wife Kristin Muir on charges of obstruction of justice and domestic battery. The couple was taken into custody without incident and remanded to the Cass County Jail. Muir played for multiple teams during his NFL career, including four seasons with the Indianapolis Colts.
Daniel Muir in Action
The NFL is a complex organization with many facets, and the pay structure for cheerleaders is just one aspect of it. While the pay may be low, the experience and exposure that comes with being an NFL cheerleader can be invaluable.
NFL Cheerleaders
