The Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, long embroiled in controversy over their compensation, are set to receive a significant pay increase, marking a transformative moment for the iconic squad. The announcement coincides with the debut of the second season of the Netflix series America’s Sweethearts, which has brought renewed attention to the issue.
In a revelation that has sent ripples through the NFL community, cheerleader Megan McElaney disclosed on the show that the squad will receive a 400% salary increase. This development follows years of advocacy by the cheerleaders for better compensation, a struggle that gained traction after a 2019 lawsuit settlement doubled their per-game pay from $200 to $400.
Background and Context
The controversy surrounding the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders’ pay is not new. In 2019, the Cowboys settled a lawsuit with a former cheerleader, which resulted in a pay increase. However, the latest raise is unprecedented, quadrupling the previous amount and potentially reshaping the financial landscape for the squad.
According to ESPN, the Cowboys had previously agreed to pay four cheerleaders a total of $2.4 million to settle claims of inappropriate filming by the team’s former public relations chief, Rich Dalrymple. Although Dalrymple denied the allegations, and the club’s investigation found no wrongdoing, the settlement highlighted ongoing issues within the organization.
Financial Disparities and Franchise Wealth
The Dallas Cowboys are recognized as the most valuable sports franchise globally, valued at $10.1 billion according to Forbes. Despite this wealth, the cheerleaders’ salaries have starkly contrasted with the franchise’s financial success. While some cheerleaders reportedly earned between $15,000 and $22,000 annually, others supplemented their income through special appearances, which are often based on tenure.
Reports from various sources, including NBC Sports Boston, have indicated that Cowboys cheerleaders earn between $15-20 per hour or $500 per game, translating to a potential $75,000 yearly salary. However, these figures vary widely and have been a point of contention.
Voices from Within
Charlotte Jones, the Cowboys’ chief brand officer and daughter of owner Jerry Jones, has acknowledged the pay disparity, stating, “There’s a lot of cynicism around pay for NFL cheerleaders — as it should be. They’re not paid a lot.” She emphasized that the cheerleaders’ motivations extend beyond financial compensation, focusing on their passion for dance and the unique opportunities the role provides.
Former cheerleader Jada McLean expressed relief over the new pay structure, saying, “Happy isn’t even the right word for it. I think I was just … kind of felt, like, a relief, like everything had paid off. And it was, you know, finally, we were done fighting.”
Implications and Future Prospects
The significant pay raise for the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders is expected to set a precedent for other NFL teams and potentially spark broader discussions about compensation for cheerleaders across the league. The move represents a step towards addressing long-standing inequities and could influence future negotiations and contracts.
As the cheerleaders continue to balance their passion for dance with financial realities, the increased pay offers a measure of security and recognition for their contributions. The impact of this change will likely unfold over the coming seasons, as other teams may feel pressure to reevaluate their own compensation structures.
In the meantime, the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders remain a symbol of excellence and dedication, with their iconic performances continuing to captivate audiences at AT&T Stadium and beyond. The latest developments underscore the evolving landscape of professional cheerleading and the ongoing quest for fair treatment and recognition.
