For many, being an NFL cheerleader is a dream job, but what many don’t realize is that it’s much more than just dancing on the sidelines. NFL cheerleaders are expected to be role models, ambassadors for their teams, and, of course, entertainers. They work long hours, often traveling and performing in front of large crowds, and while the rewards can be great, the pay is often not as high as one might think.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how much NFL cheerleaders make, as well as some of the factors that affect their pay. We’ll also discuss the challenges and rewards of being an NFL cheerleader, and provide some tips for those who are interested in pursuing a career in professional cheerleading.
While the exact amount that NFL cheerleaders make can vary depending on the team, experience, and other factors, the average salary for an NFL cheerleader is around $15,000 per year. This may seem like a low salary for a job that requires so much time and effort, but it’s important to remember that NFL cheerleaders are not considered full-time employees. They are typically paid on a per-game basis, and they may also receive additional compensation for special appearances, photo shoots, and other events.
how much do nfl cheerleaders make
Here are 8 important points about how much NFL cheerleaders make:
- Average salary: $15,000
- Per-game pay: $50-$75
- Additional compensation: Appearances, photoshoots
- Not full-time employees
- Long hours, travel, performances
- Role models, ambassadors, entertainers
- Challenging, rewarding career
- Tips for aspiring cheerleaders
While the salary may not be high, the rewards of being an NFL cheerleader can be great, including the opportunity to travel, meet new people, and be part of a team. If you’re interested in pursuing a career as an NFL cheerleader, it’s important to be prepared for the challenges and to have the dedication and passion to succeed.
Average salary: $15,000
The average salary for an NFL cheerleader is $15,000 per year. This may seem like a low salary for a job that requires so much time and effort, but it’s important to remember that NFL cheerleaders are not considered full-time employees. They are typically paid on a per-game basis, and they may also receive additional compensation for special appearances, photo shoots, and other events.
The amount that NFL cheerleaders make can vary depending on the team, experience, and other factors. For example, cheerleaders for the Dallas Cowboys are reportedly paid $20,000 per year, while cheerleaders for the New England Patriots are paid $12,000 per year.
Cheerleaders with more experience may also earn more money. For example, a cheerleader who has been with a team for five years may earn more than a rookie cheerleader. Additionally, cheerleaders who are willing to travel and perform at away games may also earn more money.
It’s also important to note that NFL cheerleaders are not eligible for benefits such as health insurance or retirement plans. This means that they must often rely on other sources of income to make ends meet.
Despite the low pay, many women are drawn to the NFL cheerleading profession because of the opportunity to travel, meet new people, and be part of a team. For many, the experience of being an NFL cheerleader is worth more than the money.
Per-game pay: $50-$75
NFL cheerleaders are typically paid on a per-game basis. The amount that they are paid can vary depending on the team, experience, and other factors, but the average per-game pay is between $50 and $75.
- Game day pay: Cheerleaders are typically paid a flat rate for each game they perform in. This rate can vary depending on the team, but it is typically between $50 and $100.
- Bonuses: Cheerleaders may also receive bonuses for special performances, such as halftime shows or appearances at special events. These bonuses can vary in amount, but they can be significant.
- Travel pay: Cheerleaders who are required to travel to away games may also receive travel pay. This pay can cover the cost of transportation, meals, and lodging.
- Other compensation: Cheerleaders may also receive other forms of compensation, such as free tickets to games, merchandise, or discounts on team apparel.
While the per-game pay may seem low, it’s important to remember that NFL cheerleaders are not considered full-time employees. They typically work only a few hours per week, and they are not eligible for benefits such as health insurance or retirement plans.
Additional compensation: Appearances, photoshoots
In addition to their per-game pay, NFL cheerleaders may also receive additional compensation for special appearances and photoshoots. These opportunities can vary depending on the team and the cheerleader’s experience and popularity, but they can be a significant source of income.
Special appearances: Cheerleaders may be asked to make special appearances at events such as charity functions, corporate events, and autograph signings. These appearances can pay anywhere from $50 to $1,000, depending on the event and the cheerleader’s popularity.
Photoshoots: Cheerleaders may also be asked to participate in photoshoots for magazines, calendars, and other publications. These photoshoots can pay anywhere from $100 to $1,000, depending on the publication and the cheerleader’s popularity.
Other opportunities: Cheerleaders may also have the opportunity to earn money through other ventures, such as modeling, acting, or hosting events. These opportunities can be lucrative, but they are not available to all cheerleaders.
While additional compensation can help NFL cheerleaders supplement their income, it is important to remember that these opportunities are not always available. Cheerleaders should not rely on additional compensation to make ends meet.
Not full-time employees
NFL cheerleaders are not considered full-time employees. This means that they do not receive benefits such as health insurance or retirement plans. They are also not eligible for unemployment benefits if they are injured or lose their job.
There are a number of reasons why NFL cheerleaders are not considered full-time employees. First, they typically work only a few hours per week. Second, their work is seasonal. Cheerleaders typically only work during the football season, which lasts from September to February. Finally, cheerleading is not considered to be a core function of the NFL. Cheerleaders are not essential to the game of football, and their jobs can be easily outsourced to other companies.
The fact that NFL cheerleaders are not considered full-time employees has a number of implications. First, it means that they have to rely on other sources of income to make ends meet. Many cheerleaders work second jobs or have other sources of income, such as modeling or acting.
Second, it means that cheerleaders are not eligible for benefits such as health insurance or retirement plans. This can make it difficult for cheerleaders to stay healthy and financially secure.
Despite the challenges, many women are drawn to the NFL cheerleading profession because of the opportunity to travel, meet new people, and be part of a team. For many, the experience of being an NFL cheerleader is worth more than the money.
Long hours, travel, performances
NFL cheerleaders work long hours, often including nights and weekends. They may also be required to travel to away games, which can be tiring and disruptive.
- Practices: Cheerleaders typically have several practices each week, in addition to games. Practices can last for several hours and may be held at a variety of locations, including the team’s practice facility, a local gym, or even a dance studio.
- Games: Cheerleaders perform at all of the team’s home games, and they may also be required to travel to away games. Games can last for several hours, and cheerleaders are expected to be on their feet the entire time, performing cheers, dances, and stunts.
- Public appearances: Cheerleaders may also be required to make public appearances, such as charity events, corporate events, and autograph signings. These appearances can take place during the day or evening, and they can be tiring and time-consuming.
- Travel: Cheerleaders who are required to travel to away games may have to miss work or school. They may also have to deal with jet lag, unfamiliar food, and other challenges.
The long hours, travel, and performances can be demanding, but they are also part of what makes being an NFL cheerleader so rewarding. Cheerleaders have the opportunity to travel the country, meet new people, and be part of a team. They also have the chance to make a difference in the community and to inspire others.
Role models, ambassadors, entertainers
NFL cheerleaders are role models, ambassadors, and entertainers. They represent the NFL and their team to the public, and they are expected to conduct themselves in a professional and positive manner at all times.
- Role models: NFL cheerleaders are role models for young girls and women. They are expected to be positive and inspiring, and to set a good example for others. Cheerleaders often participate in community outreach programs and other events that promote healthy living and positive self-esteem.
- Ambassadors: NFL cheerleaders are ambassadors for their team and the NFL. They represent the team to the public, and they are expected to be knowledgeable about the team and the sport of football. Cheerleaders often interact with fans, sign autographs, and participate in media events.
- Entertainers: NFL cheerleaders are entertainers. They perform cheers, dances, and stunts to entertain the crowd at games and other events. Cheerleaders must be talented performers, and they must be able to connect with the crowd and create a positive atmosphere.
The role of an NFL cheerleader is more than just dancing on the sidelines. Cheerleaders are expected to be role models, ambassadors, and entertainers. They play an important role in the NFL, and they help to make the game of football more enjoyable for fans.
Challenging, rewarding career
Being an NFL cheerleader is a challenging but rewarding career. Cheerleaders must be talented performers, and they must be able to work long hours and travel frequently. They must also be able to handle the pressure of performing in front of large crowds and the media. However, the rewards of being an NFL cheerleader can be great.
Cheerleaders have the opportunity to travel the country and meet new people. They also have the chance to be part of a team and to make a difference in the community. Additionally, cheerleaders can earn a decent salary and have the opportunity to pursue other career opportunities in the entertainment industry.
If you are interested in a challenging and rewarding career, then being an NFL cheerleader may be the right choice for you. However, it is important to be aware of the challenges involved before you make a decision.
Here are some tips for those who are interested in pursuing a career as an NFL cheerleader:
- Start early: The best time to start preparing for a career as an NFL cheerleader is when you are young. Start taking dance and gymnastics classes, and work on your physical fitness.
- Get involved in your community: NFL cheerleaders are expected to be role models and ambassadors for their team and the NFL. Get involved in your community and volunteer your time to worthy causes. This will show that you are a well-rounded individual who is committed to making a difference.
- Be persistent: The competition to become an NFL cheerleader is fierce. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t make the team the first time you try out. Keep working hard and improving your skills, and eventually you will achieve your goal.
Tips for aspiring cheerleaders
If you are interested in pursuing a career as an NFL cheerleader, there are a few things you can do to improve your chances of success:
- Start early: The best time to start preparing for a career as an NFL cheerleader is when you are young. Start taking dance and gymnastics classes, and work on your physical fitness. You should also start practicing your cheering and stunting skills.
- Get involved in your community: NFL cheerleaders are expected to be role models and ambassadors for their team and the NFL. Get involved in your community and volunteer your time to worthy causes. This will show that you are a well-rounded individual who is committed to making a difference.
- Be persistent: The competition to become an NFL cheerleader is fierce. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t make the team the first time you try out. Keep working hard and improving your skills, and eventually you will achieve your goal.
- Be prepared: NFL cheerleading tryouts are typically held in the spring. Before you try out, make sure that you are in peak physical condition and that you have practiced your cheers, dances, and stunts extensively.
Following these tips can help you increase your chances of becoming an NFL cheerleader. However, it is important to remember that there is no guarantee of success. The competition is fierce, and only a few women are chosen each year.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about how much NFL cheerleaders make:
Question 1: How much do NFL cheerleaders make?
Answer: The average salary for an NFL cheerleader is $15,000 per year. However, the amount that cheerleaders make can vary depending on the team, experience, and other factors.
Question 2: Are NFL cheerleaders paid per game?
Answer: Yes, NFL cheerleaders are typically paid on a per-game basis. The amount that they are paid per game can vary depending on the team, but it is typically between $50 and $75.
Question 3: Do NFL cheerleaders get paid for practices?
Answer: No, NFL cheerleaders are not typically paid for practices. However, some teams may provide cheerleaders with a stipend to cover the cost of transportation and other expenses.
Question 4: Do NFL cheerleaders get paid for travel?
Answer: Yes, NFL cheerleaders who are required to travel to away games may receive travel pay. This pay can cover the cost of transportation, meals, and lodging.
Question 5: Do NFL cheerleaders get benefits?
Answer: No, NFL cheerleaders are not considered full-time employees and are therefore not eligible for benefits such as health insurance or retirement plans.
Question 6: How can I become an NFL cheerleader?
Answer: To become an NFL cheerleader, you must first meet the eligibility requirements. These requirements vary from team to team, but typically include being a female between the ages of 18 and 30, having a high school diploma or equivalent, and being in good physical condition. You must also be able to dance, cheer, and stunt.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply to become an NFL cheerleader by submitting an application and attending tryouts.
Question 7: What are the benefits of being an NFL cheerleader?
Answer: There are many benefits to being an NFL cheerleader, including the opportunity to travel, meet new people, and be part of a team. Cheerleaders also have the chance to earn a decent salary and pursue other career opportunities in the entertainment industry.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ:
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about how much NFL cheerleaders make. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact the NFL or your favorite team.
Now that you know more about how much NFL cheerleaders make, you may be interested in learning more about how to become an NFL cheerleader. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Tips
Here are four tips to help you become an NFL cheerleader:
Tip 1: Start early
The best time to start preparing for a career as an NFL cheerleader is when you are young. Start taking dance and gymnastics classes, and work on your physical fitness. You should also start practicing your cheering and stunting skills.
Tip 2: Get involved in your community
NFL cheerleaders are expected to be role models and ambassadors for their team and the NFL. Get involved in your community and volunteer your time to worthy causes. This will show that you are a well-rounded individual who is committed to making a difference.
Tip 3: Be persistent
The competition to become an NFL cheerleader is fierce. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t make the team the first time you try out. Keep working hard and improving your skills, and eventually you will achieve your goal.
Tip 4: Be prepared
NFL cheerleading tryouts are typically held in the spring. Before you try out, make sure that you are in peak physical condition and that you have practiced your cheers, dances, and stunts extensively.
Closing Paragraph for Tips:
Following these tips can help you increase your chances of becoming an NFL cheerleader. However, it is important to remember that there is no guarantee of success. The competition is fierce, and only a few women are chosen each year.
If you are passionate about cheerleading and you are willing to put in the hard work, then you have a chance of becoming an NFL cheerleader. Just remember to start early, get involved in your community, be persistent, and be prepared.
Conclusion
In this article, we have explored the question of how much NFL cheerleaders make. We have learned that the average salary for an NFL cheerleader is $15,000 per year, but that the amount that cheerleaders make can vary depending on the team, experience, and other factors.
We have also learned that NFL cheerleaders are not considered full-time employees and are therefore not eligible for benefits such as health insurance or retirement plans. However, cheerleaders may be able to earn additional income through special appearances, photoshoots, and other opportunities.
Despite the challenges, many women are drawn to the NFL cheerleading profession because of the opportunity to travel, meet new people, and be part of a team. For many, the experience of being an NFL cheerleader is worth more than the money.
If you are interested in pursuing a career as an NFL cheerleader, it is important to start early and to be prepared for a challenging but rewarding experience. You should also be aware of the low pay and the lack of benefits.
Closing Message:
Whether you are a fan of NFL cheerleading or not, there is no denying that these women are talented athletes who work hard and deserve our respect. The next time you see an NFL cheerleader performing on the sidelines, take a moment to appreciate their skill and dedication.
