Cade York, a familiar name to LSU football fans, is stepping back into the NFL spotlight this Monday night, but this time, it’s with the Cincinnati Bengals. His journey back to the professional field is marked by a unique intersection of personal and professional connections, intertwining with the Dallas Cowboys, the Bengals’ Monday night opponent. Signed to the Bengals’ practice squad just days ago, York is not only reuniting with his former LSU teammates Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase, but he’s also facing off against his girlfriend, Zoe Dale, a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader. This unusual circumstance creates a compelling backdrop for York’s debut with the Bengals.
York’s signing comes after the Bengals placed veteran kicker Evan McPherson on injured reserve due to a groin injury. The timing of the call-up was serendipitous, coinciding with Dale’s recent baptism, an event York attended with her Cowboys cheerleader teammates. Just a day after this celebration, York received the news of his Bengals workout and the impending game against the Cowboys. This twist of fate sets the stage for a memorable Monday night, with York playfully anticipating seeing Dale on the sidelines, despite her allegiance to the opposing team.
The connection between York and Dale adds a personal dimension to the upcoming game. While Dale proudly cheers for the Cowboys, she’s made it clear her support for York will be unwavering. She’s even informed him of the quarters she’ll be positioned on the visitor’s side, allowing for a few surreptitious smiles to be exchanged amidst the on-field action. This heartwarming anecdote underscores the support and understanding between the couple, even as they find themselves on opposite sides of a professional rivalry.
York’s path back to the NFL has been marked by both achievement and adversity. Having won a national championship with LSU alongside Burrow and Chase, he entered the professional league with high expectations. However, his time with the Cleveland Browns, who drafted him in 2022, was short-lived. He was traded to the Washington Commanders in August 2024 but was released after a challenging Week 1 performance against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Now, he finds himself with a new opportunity in Cincinnati, a chance to showcase his talent and contribute to a team aiming to make a playoff push.
Dale, a newcomer to the Dallas Cowboys cheerleading squad, is equally passionate about her role. Her Instagram post announcing her selection in July 2023 radiates excitement and gratitude. She acknowledges the support of her family, friends, and faith, emphasizing the importance of their encouragement throughout her journey. This dedication and enthusiasm are evident in her commitment to the Cowboys, even as she prepares to cheer on her boyfriend from the opposing sideline.
The upcoming Monday night game holds significant implications for both York and the Bengals. For York, it’s a chance to prove his worth and solidify his position in the NFL. For the Bengals, it’s an opportunity to maintain momentum in a competitive AFC North and secure a vital win. The added layer of York’s personal connection to the Cowboys cheerleaders creates an engaging narrative for fans and adds a touch of human interest to the high-stakes world of professional football. This unique confluence of circumstances promises an unforgettable Monday night football experience, where personal relationships intersect with professional aspirations.
