nautilus_shell_studios/Getty Images/iStockphoto
The NFL has some of the most valuable sports franchises in the world, raking in billions of dollars annually. But how much do NFL cheerleaders make? Unfortunately, NFL cheerleaders don’t make nearly as much as NFL players.
According to various media sources, NFL cheerleaders usually earn an average annual salary of around $22,500. That averages out to about $150 per game and between $50 and $75 per public appearance. However, professional cheerleaders can earn more or less depending on many factors. Continue reading to learn more.
What Exactly Do NFL Cheerleaders Do?
In addition to cheering at games, NFL cheerleaders perform many other duties to earn their pay. This may interest you : This week’s Hawkeye Kid Captain had surgery before he was born. Here are some of their responsibilities:
Is NFL Cheerleading a Full-Time Job?
NFL cheerleading is not a full-time job. See the article : Who are the Division III enthusiasts? 16 teammates give shout outs. Depending on the level of competition, some NFL cheerleaders may travel with the team for every game during the season, while others may only be required to attend one or two games per week.
What Are the Requirements To Become an NFL Cheerleader?
Requirements vary from team to team, but here are a few common job requirements for NFL cheerleaders: To see also : Jaguars sign pawfensive lineman Maurice Bones-Drew to 2022 roster.
NFL cheerleader training can last from a few weeks to a few months. Selected cheerleaders attend dance, gymnastics and tumbling classes and learn about their team’s history, franchise values and their role as cheerleaders.
What Skills Are Needed To Become a Successful NFL Cheerleader?
NFL cheerleaders work year-round and need to maintain their skills to successfully compete in the sport. This requires hard work throughout the year and not just during football season. Here are some of the skills needed for a successful career as an NFL cheerleader:
How Much Do Pro Cheerleaders Make in the NFL?
The number of professional NFL cheerleaders depends on their level of experience, where they live and which team they cheer for. The average annual salary for professional NFL cheerleaders is $52,570, which is $25.27 per hour. The top 10 percent of professional NFL cheerleaders earn $124,000 per year or $59.62 per hour.
How Can NFL Cheerleaders Make Extra Money?
NFL cheerleaders can earn higher salaries based on their experience. They can also earn bonus money from playoff games and for performing at the Super Bowl. However, when they miss games, professional cheerleaders can lose money. If they miss games due to injury or other reasons, support cheerleaders are called to replace them.
Where Can NFL Cheerleaders Make the Most Money?
NFL cheerleaders who work for popular franchises, such as the Dallas Cowboys and Carolina Panthers, can earn as much as $500 per game. This equates to about $15 to $20 per hour and an annual salary of about $75,000.
Since NFL cheerleaders are independent contractors, franchises are not required to pay wages that align with states’ minimum wage requirements. At one time, some NFL cheerleaders earned as little as $5 an hour. As a result, in 2021, cheerleaders filed several lawsuits against NFL teams for wage theft. Some of these lawsuits include other claims such as sexual harassment and unsafe working conditions.
Cheerleader Salaries Compared To Other NFL Professionals
NFL cheerleaders share the field with other participants besides the players. Here’s an annual comparison of cheerleader salaries to others in the NFL:
Final Take
NFL cheerleaders are independent contractors who continually fight for higher wages. The NFL is attracting more and more fans which could also increase the demand for more professional cheerleaders to pump up game crowds. NFL cheerleaders devote a lot of time and energy to supporting their teams, so it’s disappointing how little they earn compared to the players, considering the value of NFL franchises.
Information is accurate as of November 11, 2022.
