'I don’t get the outrage': Social media in frenzy over male cheerleaders in NFL

Social media has gone into a frenzy after NFL's decision to include male cheerleaders in the 2025 season, sparking a mix of support and criticism. While some fans celebrated the inclusion as a sign of progress and diversity, others questioned the tradition of male performers in a role historically dominated by women.

The Los Angeles Rams broke ground in 2018 as the first NFL team to feature male cheerleaders. By the 2025 season, their example has inspired a sharp rise in the number of teams embracing the same. The move reflects the league’s broader commitment to diversity and inclusion, pushing back against traditional gender norms long tied to cheerleading.

In 2025, male cheerleaders are part of the game-day rosters for the Rams, New Orleans Saints, Minnesota Vikings, Baltimore Ravens, Carolina Panthers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Kansas City Chiefs, Indianapolis Colts, Tennessee Titans, New England Patriots, San Francisco 49ers, and Philadelphia Eagles. Male cheerleaders' presence adds energy, athleticism, and a modern edge to the gameday experience.


Blaize Shiek and Louie Conn made their NFL cheerleading debuts with the Minnesota Vikings during the team’s preseason opener against the Houston Texans on August 9 at US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. But soon after their first appearance, there was a significant backlash from a section of NFL fans on social media.

“I’m sorry, but I don’t get the outrage over the male cheerleaders. Who cares?,” one user wrote, echoing the sentiment of many who defended the move.


"I don’t care how the NFL spins it...this isn’t cool," another user wrote, placing the blame directly on the league for the controversy.


"Why are people freaking out about male cheerleaders all of the sudden? This isn’t a new thing."


A user, however, point out that male cheerleaders have long been part of the sport, often taking on physically demanding roles such as lifts but not as dancers.