I think most pro cheerleaders do it more for the ego-boost, the brag-factor, and being in a position to meet some very wealthy guys.
Free publicity for modeling.
Yes. This is NOT exactly "news". I don't know of a pro football cheerleader that makes anything but a paltry wage. Standard is around $100 per game, and it's a LOT of work, too.
Sure they can make $ doing appearances and signing autographs, but no way you can make a living at it.
I think it's mostly prestige.
At least the Raiderettes make more than the Bears, Packers, NY Jets, NY Giants, Lions, and Browns cheerleaders.
Oops, forgot the Steelers. I don’t think they have cheerleaders either.