NFL powerhouse Minnesota Vikings have signed two male cheerleaders ahead of the new season – a decision which was not welcomed by all sections of the fanbase.
Blaize Shiek and Louie Conn made their NFL debuts earlier this month when the Vikings opened their preseason campaign against the Houston Texans.
The inclusion of Shiek and Conn in the cheerleading team speaked huge backlash from fans, with some even threatening to cancel their season tickets.
Despite being inundated with a wave of negative comments and messages, the duo appear to have blocked out the noise.
Shiek and Conn have since decided to hit back at the critics with a social media post.
The duo shared a photo of themselves waving their pom-poms as they posed in their cheerleading uniforms.
In the caption, Shiek wrote: “Wait… did someone say our name?” This was a shot at the furor around their inclusion.
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Male cheerleaders on the rise
Male cheerleaders in the NFL is not a new concept. Men have been part of cheerleading teams since the 2018 season and their presence has been on the rise.
The Minnesota Vikings defended their duo, with the team putting out an official statement.
It read: “While many fans may be seeing male cheerleaders for the first time at Vikings games, male cheerleaders have been part of previous Vikings teams and have long been associated with collegiate and professional cheerleading.
“In 2025, approximately one third of NFL teams have male cheerleaders. Every member of the Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders program has an impressive dance background and went through the same rigorous audition process.
“Individuals were selected because of their talent, passion for dance and dedication to elevating the game day experience. We support all our cheerleaders and are proud of the role they play as ambassadors of the organization.”
New Orleans Saints also facing ridicule
The Vikings are not the only team in the NFL who have faced backlash over male cheerleaders.
The New Orleans Saints have also been dealing with criticism after announcing their decision to hire an additional number of men to their cheerleading team.
In total, there will be 13 men cheering on the Saints this season, with three women being replaced after tryouts.
The Panthers, Buccaneers, Chiefs, Colts, Titans, Patriots, 49ers, Eagles, Rams, abd Ravens will also include male cheerleaders in their squads.
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