The 2025 NFL season is seeing more male cheerleaders on the sidelines, with teams such as the Minnesota Vikings and New England Patriots joining a growing list embracing gender-inclusive squads. Supporters hail it as a step toward diversity, while critics argue it breaks with tradition.
The Vikings added Blaize Shiek and Louie Conn to their cheerleading roster, and the Patriots welcomed Jeremy Greer. This year, 12 NFL teams feature male cheerleaders — up from seven in 2024 — including the Baltimore Ravens, who have at least 19 men on their squad.
Cheerleading has deep male roots, dating back to its origin in Minnesota in 1898 and once including notable figures such as former U.S. Presidents Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush.
However, the move has sparked backlash, especially among some Vikings fans. Social media posts have included threats to cancel season tickets and accusations of the team becoming “woke.” Actor Kevin Sorbo said he would stop supporting the Vikings, while former NFL player Antonio Brown posted an offensive remark aimed at Shiek.
Others have voiced strong support. Critics of the backlash say cheerleading is a performance role open to all genders and should be judged on skill, not tradition. Shiek, addressing fans before a preseason game, responded simply: “See you at 3!”
The discussion touches on broader questions of gender norms and representation in sports. About a quarter of NFL teams now feature mixed-gender cheerleading squads, with members taking part in regular training, game-day performances, and community outreach.
While acceptance remains divided, the league’s sidelines are changing — and may continue to do so in the seasons ahead.
