Cowboys recognize Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders union in collective bargaining

The Dallas Cowboys have officially recognized the newly formed Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Association (DCCA) as their cheerleaders' collective bargaining representative. The organization announced the voluntary recognition in a joint statement on Friday, marking a significant milestone in the squad's push for improved compensation and benefits.

Scrutiny surrounding cheerleader pay resurfaced following the 2024 premiere of the Netflix documentary series "America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders." While the squad received a reported 400 percent raise ahead of the 2025 NFL season, previous compensation issues—including a lack of health insurance—prompted the move toward formal union representation.