Male cheerleaders in NFL cause conservative backlash but Minnesota Vikings ‘are proud of the role they play'

Irish Independent

2 days ago

Since the first team brought in a male for the 2018 campaign, the number of franchises abandoning female-only traditions has steadily grown. New Orleans Saints will reportedly have a total of 12 men among 47 performers on the 2025 Saints Cheer Krewe Roster. Three of their women were replaced this season following try-outs.
Other teams with male cheerleaders are the Panthers, Buccaneers, Chiefs, Colts, Titans, Patriots, 49ers, Eagles, Rams, Ravens and the Minnesota Vikings.
The Vikings, who had been singled out for fan criticism on social media, have since issued a statement saying the team was 'proud' to have male cheerleaders.
'While many fans may be seeing male cheerleaders for the first time at Vikings games, male cheerleaders have been part of previous Vikings teams and have long been associated with collegiate and professional cheerleading,' the franchise said.
'In 2025, approximately one third of NFL teams have male cheerleaders. Every member of the Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders programme has an impressive dance background and went through the same rigorous audition process. Individuals were selected because of their talent, passion for dance and dedication to elevating the game day experience. We support all our cheerleaders and are proud of the role they play as ambassadors of the organisation.'
'Outrage over nothing'
A total of seven teams had male cheerleaders in 2014. With the issue becoming a talking point in the US, Joy Taylor, a Fox Sports presenter, hit back at critics.
'So teaching kids slavery was not a big deal is acceptable but male cheerleaders is where 'conservatives' draw the line,' she wrote on social media alongside three laughing emojis. 'Also this isn't new so as usual, OUTRAGE over nothing.'
The Los Angeles Rams broke with tradition in 2018 when they added Quinton Peron and Napoleon Jinnies to their dance squad.
One male Vikings cheerleader, Blaize Shiek, appeared to take a dig at his critics after making his NFL debut.
Sharing a photo waving a golden pom-pom alongside another male cheerleader, he wrote: 'wait... did someone say our name?'
Republican congressman Clay Higgins had been among critics of the NFL integrating male cheerleaders. 'I don't think the NFL actually wants conservatives to watch their football games,' he had posted. 'And I must say if that's the NFL business model, they're doing very, very well.'