Map Shows NFL Teams With Male Cheerleaders Amid Online Scrutiny

As the NFL season of 2026 looms, online backlash is growing over the presence of male cheerleaders on NFL teams. Male cheerleading is not a novel concept, having originated as a predominantly male sport in the late 19th century. In 2018, the Los Angeles Rams and New Orleans Saints introduced male cheerleaders, a trend followed by many other teams.

However, in recent years, the existence of male cheerleaders has become a focal point for online culture wars. Lauri Harris, Executive Director of USA Cheer, the United States governing body for sport cheering, stated that cheerleading has a rich history in the United States, with men playing a significant role for over a century.

Male cheerleaders bring strength, tumbling, and athleticism to the sport, she added. Newsweek has mapped which NFL teams currently have male cheerleaders, revealing that the Philadelphia Eagles, Minnesota Vikings, Buffalo Bills, Dallas Cowboys, and Los Angeles Rams have male cheerleaders this season. The backlash against male cheerleaders intensified after a video of a male cheerleader for the Philadelphia Eagles went viral, drawing criticism from conservatives.

Notable figures such as Fox News' Laura Ingraham, American conservative social media activist Robby Starbuck, and Newsmax host Carl Higbie voiced their disapproval, with some even urging fans not to watch the NFL. Despite the criticism, USA Cheer remains committed to advocating for an inclusive, safe, and supportive environment for all athletes.