Report: Washington Football Team Pauses Cheerleading Program

Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

The Washington Football Team's cheerleading program has been put on pause amid a sexual assault investigation, according to WUSA 9's Darren Hayes. 

Washington cheerleading director Jamilla Keene has been removed from her position, per Hayes. Her departure is not related to the NFL's investigation, per a team statement. 

"In order to provide a true 'blank slate' for the development of a new gameday experience, the team will temporarily pause off-season activity of gameday programs including cheerleading and music while the new experience is developed," Washington said.

The Football Team added the changes "kicks off the next phase of the team's rebranding process."

The Washington Post released a report in July in which 15 former female employees detailed sexual harassment within the organization. Washington launched an investigation into the report shortly thereafter, but the NFL took over the investigation in August.

"While I was unaware of these allegations until they surfaced in the media, I take full responsibility for the culture of our organization," Washington owner Dan Snyder said in a statement in August. "Even before today's article, I have begun taking any and all steps necessary to ensure that the Washington Football Team is an organization that is diverse, inclusive and respectful of all."

Washington D.C. attorney Beth Wilkinson has spearheaded the NFL's investigation in recent months. She is “nearing the completion of her investigation," per Hayes. 

Three Washington employees either resigned or were fired after being named in the Washington Post report. Washington director of pro personnel Alex Santos was among those who left the organization before the 2021 season.