Torrey Smith Champions Inclusion: “If He Wants to Cheer, Let Him Cheer” in NFL

Former National Football League (NFL) wide receiver Torrey Smith has entered the national conversation surrounding the inclusion of male cheerleaders in the Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders 2025 squad. The announcement of Blaize Shiek and Louie Conn, two male athletes joining the Vikings’ cheer roster, made headlines in May, but only recently ignited widespread debate and backlash across social media and sports forums. The crux of the opposition centers on long-standing stereotypes that cheerleading is reserved for cisgender women, excluding men and nonbinary individuals from participation in this athletic and performative pursuit .

Smith, a two-time Super Bowl champion who played for teams including the Baltimore Ravens and Philadelphia Eagles, responded decisively on August 13, 2025, via a post on X (formerly Twitter). His message cut through the controversy: “I started a youth football program in West Baltimore a few months ago. It’s been extremely time-consuming and expensive! We added cheer, and I was asked if I would have a problem with a boy cheering,” Smith wrote. “If he wants to cheer, let him cheer” .

Smith’s advocacy is not merely rhetorical. His recent involvement in establishing a youth football program in West Baltimore has placed him at the intersection of sports and social development. When questioned about his stance on boys participating in cheer, Smith was unequivocal: “Zero Bullying will be allowed!” . This commitment aligns with his broader philosophy on youth sports—creating environments where all children, regardless of gender identity or expression, feel welcome and empowered to pursue their interests.

This approach is evident in Smith’s social media presence, where he frequently highlights the values of leadership, education, vision, effort, and love through his organization LEVEL82, dedicated to fostering positive development in young athletes . By publicly supporting male cheerleaders, Smith underscores the need for sports programs to be affirming and inclusive spaces for all youth, including those who are LGBTQ+.

The inclusion of Blaize Shiek and Louie Conn in the Vikings’ cheerleading squad is part of a growing movement towards diversity within NFL cheer squads. While male cheerleaders have historically faced exclusion, there has been a gradual shift in recent years, with more teams opening up opportunities for men and people of all gender identities to join their ranks. This evolution reflects broader cultural changes within professional sports, as organizations grapple with questions of gender norms, representation, and equity .

The online backlash, however, reveals persistent resistance to these changes. Critics argue that male cheerleaders disrupt the “traditional” image of NFL cheer squads, an argument Smith effectively rebuts by centering the well-being and self-expression of young athletes. “If he wants to cheer, let him cheer,” Smith’s statement reads—a simple yet powerful affirmation that challenges the exclusionary norms of the past .

Smith’s public support is especially significant for LGBTQ+ communities, where visibility and allyship from high-profile figures can have profound impacts. Cheerleading has long been a space where LGBTQ+ youth—particularly gay and bisexual boys, transgender people, and nonbinary individuals—have sought acceptance and found community. The presence of male cheerleaders in the NFL not only affirms their place in professional sports but also challenges stereotypes about masculinity and athleticism.

By refusing to tolerate bullying and advocating for unrestricted participation, Smith positions himself as an ally to LGBTQ+ youth and adults navigating the complexities of identity in sports. His approach resonates with broader efforts across the NFL and other professional leagues to foster inclusive cultures, including initiatives to address homophobia, transphobia, and gender-based discrimination .

As the conversation continues, Smith’s voice adds momentum to the push for inclusive practices in all levels of sports—from professional leagues to youth programs. His stance—“Zero Bullying will be allowed”—serves as a model for coaches, administrators, and athletes seeking to create safe and supportive environments. For the Minnesota Vikings and other NFL teams, the inclusion of male cheerleaders marks a step forward in the ongoing journey toward equity and representation.

The story of Blaize Shiek and Louie Conn, amplified by Smith’s support, offers hope and inspiration to LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies. It signals that the future of sports is one in which everyone—regardless of gender identity—can contribute, perform, and be celebrated for their talents.