**Introduction

The thread of why the National Football League (NFL) treats cheerleaders poorly touches on several interesting and pertinent issues within the world of professional sports and the labor market. This piece will explore these issues, weighing societal expectations against the realities of the business model employed by NFL teams.

Understanding the Context

The question of why the NFL does not treat cheerleaders better is a multifaceted one that delves into issues of labor standards, business practices, and public perception. At the heart of this issue lies the dynamics of the competitive labor market and the financial constraints faced by professional sports teams.

The Competitive Labor Market

Why Cheerleaders Are Typically Low-Wage Employees

One of the main reasons why the NFL and other sports organizations do not pay cheerleaders well lies in the supply of qualified candidates for these roles. There is a strong pool of enthusiastic individuals willing to work for lower wages, akin to any other niche job market. This reality often means that the hiring process for cheerleaders is highly competitive, with many highly qualified candidates being turned away. Unlike professional athletes, who are often highly sought after and may sign multi-million dollar contracts, cheerleaders usually have a more flexible and lower payscale.

Business Priorities and Financial Constraints

Focus on Core Revenue Streams

NFL teams, like many professional sports franchises, are primarily business entities focused on profitability. Cheerleaders are generally not considered a core revenue stream but rather an ancillary part of the fans' experience. The primary draw for fans is the sport itself, and most come to games to watch the players compete. Therefore, reducing or eliminating cheerleaders would have minimal impact on the overall appeal of a game, which means these roles are not given the same financial importance as vital team positions like players or coaches.

Public Perception and Fan Demand

The Basis of Public Attitude

Another critical facet of this issue is the public's reluctance to advocate significantly for changes to how cheerleaders are treated. While there have been numerous reports and articles highlighting the poor treatment of cheerleaders, public attention generally shifts back to the players and coaches, who are more directly involved in the action and are subjects of intense scrutiny and fan loyalty. The exception to this is when severe abuses, such as the alleged sexual misconduct involving Washington Redskins cheerleaders, occur. Such instances remind the public of the underlying issues, but overall, the public does not exert significant pressure for systemic change.

Churn and Renewal in the Cheerleading Ranks

Volatility in Employment

The turnover rate among cheerleaders is also a key factor. Most cheerleaders join for the love of the sport or as a stepping stone to other career opportunities. As such, they are often willing to accept less favorable conditions, understanding that these roles can be a relatively short-term opportunity. This willingness among prospective candidates makes it easier for teams to maintain their regular lineups without substantial investment or ethical considerations.

Conclusion

The NFL and other professional sports leagues often come up short in treating cheerleaders fairly due to the realities of the competitive labor market, business priorities, and limited public demand for systemic change. Addressing these issues requires a shift in public expectations and a recognition that every role in a sports franchise is valuable, not just the athletes on the field.