Justine Lindsay, the NFL’s First Trans Cheerleader, Leaves the Carolina Panthers

Justine Lindsay, who made history in 2022 as the first transgender cheerleader in the NFL, has announced her departure from the Carolina Panthers’ TopCats team. In a statement to Outsports, Lindsay said she will now focus on advocacy and pageantry, aiming to inspire future leaders and marginalized communities. Lindsay, a graduate of NC State and Johnson C. Smith University, came out publicly as trans after joining the team and received widespread support—and some backlash. The Panthers stood by her at the time, emphasizing nondiscrimination. Her next chapter will center on mentorship, education, and elevating trans visibility beyond the cheerleading spotlight.

Advertisements

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Justine S Lindsay (@justinesimone_)

Source: BET