Behind the Pom-Poms: The Financial Realities of Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders
Dancing for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders is a prestigious honor, but it does not come with a high salary. Many DCC stars have to supplement their incomes with multiple jobs to make ends meet. Some dancers have revealed that they make around $15 per hour for practice and receive a flat fee for each NFL game they perform at.
Jada McLean, who danced with the DCC for five seasons, shared that she made $15 per hour and received a $500 fee per game during her last season with the team. The cheerleaders are considered part-time employees by the Cowboys, which means they do not receive full salaries or health insurance coverage. They do, however, have access to the team's doctor and physical therapist and are encouraged to pursue social media partnerships.
In contrast to the cheerleaders, football players receive more than just hourly wages and have insurance through the NFL organization. Despite the lower pay, DCC members like Reece Weaver are grateful for the opportunity to be part of the team and cherish the experience. The cheerleaders understand the financial challenges and the need for additional income to support themselves.
Some former DCC members, like Erica Wilkins, have taken legal action against the Cowboys for unfair pay. Erica sued the team in 2018 but settled out of court in 2019. More recently, Jada and her teammates successfully negotiated a 400 percent pay increase for the cheerleaders at the end of the 2024-2025 NFL season. This significant raise will alleviate financial stress for the dancers and improve their overall well-being.
The new salary boost could see veteran cheerleaders earning $75 per hour, although the exact amounts have not been disclosed by the Cowboys. The cheerleaders' push for higher pay was led by Jada, Megan McElaney, and Amanda Howard, who wanted to ensure that future DCC members would not have to face the same financial struggles they did. The cheerleaders are pleased with the enhancements made to their compensation and are looking forward to a brighter financial future.
Kelli, the director of the DCC, was not directly involved in the salary discussions but expressed her satisfaction with the outcome. She emphasized the team's focus on moving forward and maintaining momentum. The cheerleaders' dedication to their craft and their willingness to advocate for fair compensation have led to positive changes within the organization.