New England Patriots Cheerleaders Gear Up for 2025 NFL Season: Squad Reveal, Male Inclusion, and Fan Buzz
The New England Patriots cheerleaders are set to electrify Gillette Stadium as the 2025 NFL season kicks off on September 7 against the Las Vegas Raiders. With a refreshed squad blending veterans, rookies, and a historic male member, the team promises high-energy performances amid a wave of national debate on inclusivity in NFL cheerleading.
Squad Announcement and Key Highlights
The Patriots announced their 2025 cheerleading squad in early August, following a rigorous two-month audition process that included virtual preliminaries, bootcamp finals, and a surprise reveal at Gillette Stadium’s Lighthouse. The group features a mix of all-stars, returning veterans, and 10 newcomers, maintaining the squad’s tradition of athleticism and community engagement. Notable members include fourth-year veteran Alexa, a Massachusetts native and 2025 Pro Bowl representative, who balances her role with a background in business administration and marketing.
The squad debuted during the preseason opener against the Washington Commanders on August 8, 2025, performing routines that highlighted their precision dance and tumbling skills. Captains like five-year veteran Driss, who represented the team at the 2024 Pro Bowl, lead the charge, emphasizing teamwork and fan interaction.
The Male Cheerleader Addition: Jeremy Greer Joins the Lineup
A major storyline this season is the inclusion of Jeremy Greer as the squad’s first male cheerleader in recent years, sparking widespread conversation. Greer, selected in April 2025, celebrated his spot with an emotional on-field moment, waving pom-poms in jubilation. The Patriots have featured male cheerleaders since 2019, with pioneers like Steven Sonntag and Driss Dallahi, but Greer’s addition to the 2025 roster has reignited national interest.
This aligns with a league-wide trend: 12 NFL teams, including the Ravens, Panthers, Colts, Chiefs, Rams, Vikings, Saints, Eagles, 49ers, Buccaneers, and Titans, now include male cheerleaders, up from seven in 2024. The Patriots’ reveal video, showcasing Greer alongside the squad, went viral, blending high-energy choreography with the team’s new Nike uniforms inspired by New England maritime heritage.
Calendar Launch and Community Initiatives
The squad marked the offseason with the August 16, 2025, launch party for their 2025 Resort and Sideline Calendars at Gillette Stadium. Shot at Dreams Las Mareas in Costa Rica, the Resort edition features 24 stunning photos, while the Sideline version offers limited-edition game-day shots—both available via the NFL Shop. The public event drew fans for autographs and previews, underscoring the cheerleaders’ role in team branding.
Off the field, the group continues its legacy of philanthropy. Members like Sarah Barrett promote empowerment through sports, volunteering at events such as the Personal Best Charity’s Thanksgiving Turkey Brigade and autism awareness appearances. The Junior Patriots Cheerleaders program, for ages 7-17, hosted clinics in June and July, fostering the next generation with over 200 participants.
Fan Reactions and the Inclusivity Debate
The squad’s reveal has divided fans, particularly over Greer’s inclusion. Social media erupted with backlash, some labeling it “woke” and tying it to the team’s post-Tom Brady struggles, while supporters hailed it as progress. Posts on X questioned the NFL’s direction, with one user quipping, “Is the NFL going gay?” amid lists of the 12 teams embracing co-ed squads. Defenders pointed to historical precedents, like Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush as college cheerleaders, and praised the athletic demands.
Former Patriots cheerleader Steven Sonntag addressed the uproar, noting male cheerleaders have been part of the squad since 2019 and emphasizing the role’s skill over gender. Analysts view it as part of the NFL’s push for diversity, with teams like the Ravens featuring co-ed stunt groups. Calls for boycotts have surfaced, but many fans focus on the cheerleaders’ energy boosting the revitalized Patriots roster.
Impact on Patriots Fans and NFL Culture
For New England supporters, the cheerleaders enhance the game-day experience at Gillette, from halftime shows to community events, amid high expectations for a playoff push after a tough 2024. The squad’s inclusivity mirrors broader NFL shifts, promoting gender equality while facing conservative pushback—potentially influencing attendance and merchandise sales in a $15 billion league.
Economically, calendars and appearances generate revenue, supporting local charities. Culturally, it challenges stereotypes, inspiring young athletes through programs like the Junior Cheerleaders. As the season unfolds, the group will perform at all home games, including primetime matchups, blending tradition with modern flair.
Looking Ahead: Performances and Legacy
The 2025 Patriots cheerleaders, led by captains like Driss, are poised for a dynamic season, with routines tailored to the team’s new uniforms and a focus on fan engagement. As debates simmer, their on-field presence will remind fans of cheerleading’s athletic roots—high kicks, flips, and unyielding spirit.
With the NFL season underway, expect more viral moments from Gillette. The squad’s evolution reflects the Patriots’ rebuild: resilient, inclusive, and ready to rally the faithful toward another championship run.