Did Jada Mclean use the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders pay fight to launch her next career? Inside her sudden exit

Jada Mclean left an unforgettable mark on the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders — not only for her powerful performances over five seasons but for the role she played in changing the game off the field.

As season 2 of Netflix's America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders revealed, Mclean helped lead the squad’s push for fairer compensation. But in a surprise twist, just as their efforts finally paid off with a 400% salary increase, Mclean made the emotional decision to retire.

A leader on and off the field

The Palm Springs native worked her way to the top of the DCC ranks, eventually becoming first group leader — a role that required mentorship, choreography assistance, and strong team communication.

Mclean was a standout not just for her dance skills but for her voice.

Speaking of the team's successful compensation battle, she said: "'Happy' isn't even the right word for it. [It] kind of felt like a relief, like everything had paid off ... finally we were done fighting."Still, despite the long-awaited victory, Mclean confirmed her departure from the team during the uniform return ceremony. “I’m just looking forward to what’s next for me in life, and give it my all like I did when I was here,” she told director Kelli Finglass and choreographer Judy Trammell.

It was a tearful farewell that signaled not just the end of an era, but a promising new beginning.

Life after the poms: Modeling, travel, and award shows

Since retiring, Mclean hasn’t stepped away from the spotlight entirely. She’s traveled across the U.S. and Mexico, appeared at the ACM Awards, and even returned for limited promotional performances as part of the DCC On Tour and media appearances for the docuseries.

In a May TikTok video, she opened up about her dreams beyond cheerleading: “I have thought about going into modeling after my DCC career comes to an end...

I am as amateur as they come in the world of modeling.”Also Read: Who is Cooper Maas? Dallas Cowboys rookie cheerleader becomes unexpected fan favorite ahead of 2025 NFL seasonMclean has also hinted that she’s undecided about auditioning for the DCC All-Stars, which would allow her to step in for special events. For now, she’s embracing life outside the uniform — one where her leadership, courage, and charisma continue to inspire beyond the stadium lights.