Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders are defending one of their teammates amid “body shaming” comments.

Claire Wolford, a veteran Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader who has retired from full-time cheerleading duties but makes appearances as a DCC All-Star, was body shamed online, after videos of her performing went viral. Fans despicably accused her of being too big for her uniform and gaining weight since retiring from full-time cheerleading duties.

The veteran Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader spoke out about the troubling comments in a TikTok video that has gone viral, with more than one million views.

The 26-year-old cheerleader had recently filled in for an injured teammate during a game. She was criticized by some for her appearance.

“I wanted to jump on here and address something,” the Cowboys cheerleader said in a TikTok video posted from her car. “I’ve just seen a lot recently and have grown a lot myself.”

Wolford, who retired from full-time cheerleading duties in 2023, was proud of herself – and her body.

“It was a very quick thing, and honestly, I’m very proud of myself for doing that,” she said of her performance. “There were a lot of negative body-shaming comments. I just really hope people realize … I spent years of my life body-shaming myself, exercising and trying to fit a certain mold. I have healed from that and feel so much better where I’m at.”

Wolford issued an important message for all young girls.

“You never know who you are triggering,” she added, wiping away tears. “There are girls who see that and maybe are not the same … and it causes them to stumble and think about, ‘Am I too big? Am I thick?’ and all the words that were thrown out [about me]. Years ago, that would have thrown me into a spiral and sent me to the gym for hours.”

Claire continued, “I just want people to realize, it’s just not OK to comment on people’s bodies. … There’s a lot better things to talk about, and there’s a lot more interesting things about people than their bodies.”

Wolford’s teammates are standing up for her

Wolford’s teammates instantly defended her online from the “body shaming” comments.

“You are my BIGGEST role model in every aspect in life. ❤ you are such a voice for everyone & are SO LOVED by so many. You are BEAUTIFUL and perfect beyond words. This is so important and so true. I adore you more than words can ever say!!!!!!” one wrote.

“THIS IS SO IMPORTANT!!!! I love you sm Claire, you are one of the BEST to ever do it, and I look up to you more than you will ever know! You are INCREDIBLE queen, inside & out!!!💛” another added.

“I’m so proud of you for speaking up…this needed to be said. You looked SO beautiful and strong out there. These things people are saying have nothing to do with you & everything to do with how they feel about themselves. You’re such an inspiration truly- deep down to your core. I love you!” one shared.

Another wrote: “Claire I love you so dearly and you are such a light. It was such a gift to dance with you again!!!! Words have power and I am SO sorry that those negative words brought you back to a dark space. I’m glad you’ve healed from that space bc you are SUCH an inspiration for people around the world. I LOVE YOU🤍”

It’s important that people like Claire speak up. Well done.

This story was originally published by The Spun on Dec 2, 2025, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.