A cheerleader's salary in the National Football League can vary widely depending on a variety of factors—such as team, location, and experience. It is important to note that NFL cheerleading is typically a part-time or seasonal position, rather than a full-time job.
In the past, many NFL cheerleaders have received relatively low wages or minimal compensation for their time and dedication, with some earning just a few hundred dollars per season. Recent years have seen increased attention and advocacy for fair pay in the industry, which has prompted some teams to reevaluate their compensation structures and offer higher wages and/or improved benefits for their cheerleaders.
NFL cheerleaders are paid as little as $5 an hour, while the league made $11 billion last year.
— More Perfect Union (@MorePerfectUS) February 9, 2023
The NFL is stealing from cheerleaders. pic.twitter.com/tZ2LYRFiBi
While specific figures can differ significantly, there have been reports of cheerleaders earning anywhere from minimum wage to a few thousand dollars per season. It's important to highlight that the compensation for NFL cheerleaders is not solely based on their performance during games. They often have other responsibilities such as community appearances, rehearsals, and promotional events, which can contribute to their overall compensation package. Some teams may also provide additional perks such as travel allowances or uniform reimbursements.
The good news for a team like the Kansas City Chiefs is that, given their present run of success and/or ability to play in bigger games in primetime competitions, cheerleaders are compensated for their efforts accordingly.
It's worth noting that the NFL and its teams have faced criticism and legal challenges regarding the treatment and pay of cheerleaders. In some cases, lawsuits have been filed by cheerleaders claiming unfair wages and working conditions. These cases have spurred conversations and efforts to improve the working conditions and compensation for NFL cheerleaders across the league.