Justine Lindsay, who made history in 2022 when she was hired by the Carolina Panthers as the first transgender cheerleader in NFL history, has moved on from the team. 

In a statement to Outsports, Lindsay confirmed that she will not be on the TopCats roster this upcoming season and plans to work as a community advocate.

“For now, I’m focusing on my pageantry work and community involvement, striving to be recognized not just as an NFL cheerleader, but as someone making a positive impact, especially during these uncertain times,” she said.

“Being in the NFL was a stepping stone to get me where I need to be, and God is blessing me each and every day, giving me the breath to do the work and change lives,” her statement continued. “My focus is to educate and uplift the younger generation of leaders to focus on their dreams and goals. Don’t let a president who is delusional stop them from reaching their goals, whether they are trans, African American, not American, etc.”

As a student at Johnson C. Smith University, Lindsay was a member of the Golden Bullettes dance team. She would go on to graduate with a bachelor's degree in communications from North Carolina State University. She also has an  associate degree from The Art Institute of Charlotte.

After making the TopCats, the Panther’s cheerleading team, she revealed she was trandgender in an Instagram post.

“Cats Out the Bag you are looking at the newest member of the Carolina Panthers TopCats Cheerleader’s @topcats as the first Transgender female,” read the caption. I would like to thank the beautiful and talented dancers who supported me along the way, alumni TopCats family and friends for your love and support. I would not have gotten to this moment in my life if it wasn’t for the support. Also to my beautiful coach @chandalaelanouette you are a special being that I truly cherish. Thank you taking that leap of faith on me to be a part of your legacy and so many others.

In an interview with Buzz Feed News, Lindsay shared what the reaction was like to become a member of the team’s cheerleading squad.

“I just felt like when I posted it, whatever reaction I get from everyone, it does not matter,” Lindsay said. “And then my phone started blowing up.”

After facing backlash because of Lindsay's hiring, the Panthers released a statement denouncing.

"Members of the TopCats are hired based on their qualifications and abilities. Our organization is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate because of age, race, religion, color, disability, sex, sexual orientation, or national origin. We wish all the TopCats, including Justine Lindsay, an incredible season,” the post read.