Who Was the First Transgender NFL Cheerleader?
The first openly transgender NFL cheerleader was Lauren Davenport, who joined the San Francisco 49ers cheerleading squad in 2018. Her selection marked a widely reported milestone in the league's cheerleading programs.
Background and Career Timeline
Before joining the squad, Davenport was an athlete and performer with dance and cheer experience. She successfully auditioned and became a member of the 49ers cheerleading team during the 2018 NFL season.
Impact and Public Response
Her inclusion generated national media coverage and discussion about transgender visibility in professional sports entertainment. Supporters cited her as a positive example of inclusion, while the team focused on her role as a cheerleader and performer. For more background, see the NBC News profile.
