Longtime Dallas Cowboys front-office leader and cheerleading director Kelli Finglass has guided the iconic squad for more than 3 decades. The veteran executive has shaped the group into one of the most recognizable brands in the NFL and starred in the popular Netflix series America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.
Judy Trammell, head choreographer, and Kelli Finglass, director of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders answer questions during the squad’s final tour stop at the Abraham Chavez Theatre in El Paso, Texas, on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
Judy Trammell, head choreographer, and Kelli Finglass, director of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders answer questions during the squad’s final tour stop at the Abraham Chavez Theatre in El Paso, Texas, on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
Kelli Finglassshared a new Instagram reel on her ongoing skin cancer journey. She revealed she had five spots biopsied during a routine skin check before a cosmetic treatment at a Texas clinic. Four came back clear but one small spot on her forehead was diagnosed as squamous cell carcinoma.
Finglass has ahistory of skin cancer with three previous squamous cell carcinomas removed from her arm and calf, plus a past melanoma diagnosis. She underwent Mohs micrographic surgery which she calls scoop and stitch. The procedure removes cancerous tissue layer by layer while checking margins before stitching.
In the recent reel, Finglassencouraged fans with the message, “Do your skin checks wear your sunscreen and wear your hats.” The caption read, “As I continue my journey from discovery to treatment of my skin cancers I wanted to share something important.”
Her update shows the value of early detection and regular skin checks, a message she shared to encourage others to take skin health seriously.
Kelli Finglass receives Cowboys family support
Current and former Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders flooded the comments with prayers and support.
Charly Barby wrote, “Praying for your recovery.”
Brooklyn Davis said, “Praying for healing.”
Faith Ward posted, “Sending so much love Kelli.”
Former member Miranda Buechel added, “Hoping for the speediest recovery so happy they found it and were able to remove it.”
Morgan Perschy wrote, “Praying for a speedy recovery sending so much love.”
The outpouring shows the tight bond within the Cowboys organization. Finglass has led the cheerleaders since 1991 after performing for five seasons herself.
She created programs like Camp DCC and Cheers for Years, secured major sponsorships and produced the long-running CMT series.
Kelli Finglass and the Dallas Cowboys organization show how teams rally together during personal health challenges. The cheerleaders’ quick prayers reflect the close family that defines the franchise.
Many NFL teams support their staff and players the same way when facing tough times. This unity strengthens the bond between the front office cheer squad and fans.
It shows the human side of the NFL beyond the field and reflects the strong sense of community within the Cowboys.