Justine Lindsay, the first openly transgender cheerleader in the NFL, has announced he will not return to the Carolina Panthers’ cheerleading team for the upcoming season. Lindsay joined the TopCats squad in 2022, marking a first in league history, but now says his focus will shift to other pursuits, including pageantry, community activism, and a potential career in sports media.
Lindsay told Outsports that his departure is driven by a desire to have a broader social impact and pursue educational goals. “Being in the NFL was a stepping stone,” he said, crediting God for opening new paths and affirming a commitment to “educate and uplift the younger generation.”
His announcement follows increasing scrutiny of NFL cheer squads featuring men, with the Minnesota Vikings facing widespread backlash after recently adding two male dancers to their team. Social media users mocked the team for what many viewed as overly effeminate routines, igniting a broader debate about the direction of professional cheerleading in major sports leagues.
The inclusion of male and transgender members in NFL cheer squads is becoming more common. According to current data, at least 12 NFL teams now have men participating on their official cheer squads. Critics argue this trend undermines traditional cheerleading roles and raises concerns about the values being promoted to fans and families.
The NFL has not issued a statement on Lindsay’s departure. The Carolina Panthers have not announced whether a replacement will be named or if the cheer team will return to an all-female format. Lindsay did not indicate whether a return to the league is planned in the future.
