Overview

• Shiek and Conn shared an Instagram photo captioned “wait…did someone say our name?” following their debut on the sidelines to directly address online detractors.
• Some supporters voiced outrage on social media, with reports that season-ticket holders threatened cancellations over their inclusion.
• The Vikings released a statement highlighting the squad’s co-ed history and defending the rookies based on their professional dance backgrounds.
• The New Orleans Saints confirmed 13 male cheerleaders for 2025, demonstrating that roughly one-third of NFL teams now include men on their squads.
• Former wide receiver Torrey Smith and commentator Joy Taylor publicly backed the newcomers, calling their inclusion part of evolving professional cheer norms.