Justine Lindsay has confirmed a departure from the Carolina Panthers' TopCats cheerleading squad after three seasons with the team. The 32-year-old made history in 2022 as the NFL's first openly transgender cheerleader.
Lindsay described time with the TopCats as an important step in a wider career path. In an interview with Outsports, Lindsay explained that the role acted as preparation for broader ambitions.
Current priorities now include pageantry competitions and community engagement projects. Recognition beyond cheerleading achievements has become a central focus, particularly during a climate of political uncertainty.
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A recent victory at Ms Charlotte Black Pride Lady 2025 highlighted growing influence outside professional sport and demonstrated an expanding platform within wider communities.
Justine Lindsay has confirmed a departure from the Carolina Panthers' TopCats cheerleading squad after three seasons with the team. The 32-year-old made history in 2022 as the NFL's first openly transgender cheerleader
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Lindsay also criticised political opposition to transgender participation in athletics, pointing directly to recent developments. In a statement, Lindsay declared: "Do not let a president who is delusional stop progress or prevent individuals from reaching goals, whether transgender, African American, non-American, or otherwise."
These comments followed Donald Trump's public opposition to transgender athletes in women’s sports. Lindsay stressed the importance of perseverance in the face of political headwinds.
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The message centred on encouraging individuals to pursue personal aspirations regardless of background or identity, while emphasising that hostile rhetoric should not deter ambition.
Departure from the TopCats coincided with a heightened national debate over transgender rights in athletics.
Lindsay has also enrolled in educational programmes in sports journalism, preparing for the next phase of a professional journey. Academic development is intended to keep football as a central part of future work through a new role.
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Justine Lindsay was with the Carolina Panthers for three years
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Plans have already been announced for a return to football environments in 2026.
"Next year will bring a presence on a football field once again, either through conducting interviews or performing on the sidelines," Lindsay stated.
Confidence has been expressed that an NFL background will strengthen credibility when covering football stories, while also offering a way to sustain passion for the sport and expand professional opportunities.
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Groundbreaking inclusion on the TopCats roster in 2022 positioned Lindsay as a pioneering figure in professional American football.
The Panthers organisation confirmed that recruitment followed standard merit-based procedures. TopCats director Chandalae Lanouette stated that Lindsay’s hiring was based entirely on qualifications and abilities.
Justine Lindsay made pointed comments at Donald Trump during the interview
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The franchise reiterated its commitment to equal-opportunity employment when announcing the addition to the squad. Officials declared: "Members of the TopCats are hired based on their qualifications and abilities."
The Carolina Panthers have not yet released a statement regarding the decision to leave the cheerleading programme after a three-year tenure.