5 Shocking Secrets Revealed About The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders 2025 Roster And 400% Pay Raise

The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC) are currently undergoing one of the most transformative periods in their storied history, with the latest news dominating headlines in late 2024 and early 2025. This iconic squad, affectionately known as "America's Sweethearts," has seen a massive shift in public visibility and, more importantly, in compensation, thanks to a major new streaming deal and a reported "life-changing" 400% pay increase. The new 2025 squad, featuring a mix of powerhouse veterans and six fresh rookies, is now the focus of the hit Netflix documentary series, *America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders*, giving fans an unprecedented, unfiltered look into the competitive world of professional cheerleading. The transition from the long-running *DCC: Making the Team* reality show to the sleek, high-production Netflix series has dramatically amplified the conversation around the cheerleaders' dedication, the intense Training Camp process, and the long-overdue financial reforms. With a new class of rookies making the team and the veterans stepping into leadership roles, the 2025 season is poised to be the most scrutinized and celebrated in the squad's history, solidifying their status as the gold standard in the NFL.

The Definitive DCC Leadership and Key Veteran Profiles (2025 Squad)

The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders organization is built on a foundation of strict tradition, fierce professionalism, and unwavering leadership. The 2025 squad is guided by the same powerful figures who have defined the DCC brand for decades, alongside a core group of seasoned veterans who embody the spirit of the uniform.

DCC Executive and Creative Leadership

The success and global brand recognition of the DCC are largely attributed to the following key figures:

• Kelli Finglass (Senior Director): A former DCC member herself, Finglass has been the Senior Director since 1991. She is the ultimate authority on the squad, overseeing everything from auditions and choreography to appearances and brand management. She is a central figure in the *America's Sweethearts* series.
• Judy Trammell (Head Choreographer): Serving alongside Finglass since 1991, Trammell is responsible for the iconic DCC performance style. Her demanding choreography and precision standards are legendary, driving the intensity of the Training Camp process.
• Charlotte Jones (Co-Owner and Chief Brand Officer): As the daughter of Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, Charlotte Jones has been instrumental in elevating the DCC brand to its current global status, entrusting its direction to Finglass and Trammell.

Notable Veterans on the 2025 Roster

The 2025 squad features a strong contingent of returning members, many of whom serve as Group Leaders (GL) and Co-Points, the highest on-field positions:

• Chandi Dayle: A veteran stepping into her 6th year, Chandi is a Co-Point and a former Group Leader, representing the highest level of tenure and performance.
• Jada McLean: A 5th-year veteran and Co-Point, Jada's journey and perspective on the pay structure were highlighted in the latest news cycle. (from step 1)
• Kleine: A 5th-year veteran and Group Leader, demonstrating long-term commitment and leadership.
• Armani Latimer: A 5th-year veteran and Group Leader.
• Karley Swindel: A 4th-year veteran and Group Leader.
• Anna Kate Sundvold: A 3rd-year veteran and Group Leader.
• Other prominent veterans include Marissa, KayDianna, Kelee, Amanda Howard, Brooklyn Davis, Camille Sturdivant, Reece Weaver, and Sophy Laufer.

The "America's Sweethearts" Effect: Pay, Fame, and the Netflix Era

The biggest news surrounding the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders in the current 2024-2025 cycle is the dramatic shift in their financial compensation, a subject brought to the forefront by the new Netflix series.

The 'Life-Changing' 400% Pay Raise

For years, the compensation for NFL cheerleaders, including the DCC, was a source of controversy, often cited as being disproportionately low compared to the revenue they generate and the time commitment required. (from step 1) Former squad members confirmed that as recently as 2024, the pay structure was approximately $15 per hour for practices and $500 per game or major appearance. (from step 1) However, the new Netflix series, *America's Sweethearts*, reportedly unveiled a massive, "life-changing" 400% pay raise for the squad. (from step 1) While the exact new hourly and per-game figures have not been universally confirmed across all media, the general consensus is that the Dallas Cowboys organization has made a significant adjustment to the compensation structure, bringing the pay closer to a livable wage for the highly demanding, year-round role. This move is a landmark moment, setting a new standard for professional cheerleading compensation across the league.

The Transition to Netflix: America's Sweethearts

The DCC's journey to the roster was famously documented for 16 seasons on CMT’s *Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team*. In a major media shift, the new chapter of the DCC's story is being told by Netflix in the docuseries *America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders*. The new series, which premiered in mid-2024, offers a more intimate and in-depth look at the personal lives, sacrifices, and intense pressure faced by the hopefuls and veterans alike. It chronicles the 2025 audition process and the grueling Training Camp, providing a fresh perspective on Kelli Finglass and Judy Trammell's relentless pursuit of perfection. This high-profile platform has significantly boosted the global fame of the current squad members.

Meet the Future: The 2025 Roster's New Rookies and 'Comeback Girl'

The 2025 Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders squad is comprised of a total of 36 women, including a highly anticipated class of six new rookies who successfully navigated the rigorous audition process.

The Audition and Training Camp Gauntlet

The DCC audition process is arguably the most famous and grueling in professional sports. It begins with preliminary auditions, followed by semi-finals, finals, and culminates in a multi-week Training Camp. Candidates are judged not only on their dance skills, kicks, and jumps but also on their interview skills, knowledge of the Dallas Cowboys and NFL, and overall physical appearance and professionalism. The intense Training Camp, often the focus of the Netflix series, is where Judy Trammell and Kelli Finglass make their final cuts, testing the hopefuls' stamina, ability to learn choreography quickly, and mental toughness.

Spotlight on the New Class: Jenna Waller's Story

Among the six new rookies who earned their spot on the 2025 squad, one story captured the public's attention: that of Jenna Waller. Jenna was previously a hopeful who did not make the team, but her sheer determination led her to return to the audition process. Her successful return, earning her the title of a 'Comeback Girl,' has become an inspirational storyline, highlighting the perseverance required to achieve the dream of wearing the iconic star-spangled uniform at AT&T Stadium. Other notable rookies include Madeline "Maddy," who also successfully navigated the competitive field to join the squad. The blend of seasoned veterans like Chandi and Jada, who provide stability and elite performance, and the hungry, determined new rookies like Jenna Waller, ensures that the 2025 Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders squad maintains the highest standard of excellence and continues to be "America's Sweethearts." The new pay structure and the global reach of the Netflix show guarantee that the DCC brand remains one of the most powerful and aspirational in the world of entertainment and sports.