JJ McCarthy’s Big Week

It’s been quite the week for new Vikings quarterback, JJ McCarthy.

On Monday night, in Chicago, he and his fiancée, Katya Kuropas, celebrated the arrival of their first child, a son named Roma Mica, right after his first NFL victory.

In an Instagram post, Kuropas shared, “Welcome to the world, Rome Mica McCarthy! The sweetest and most perfect gift from God!! We are incredibly blessed to be your parents.”

McCarthy chimed in with a comment, adding, “God is wonderful! And you are my love @katyakuropas.”

Fast forward to Thursday, and reports surfaced that the 22-year-old was juggling practice while also at the hospital with Kuropas, who he has known since high school.

The couple had announced their pregnancy back in May, about a year after McCarthy was picked 10th overall by the Vikings in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Kuropas later posted on Instagram, reflecting, “The best surprises happen when you expect them the least. Our sweet boy arrived in September, and we couldn’t be happier.”

McCarthy missed much of his rookie season due to a knee injury but, this year, he’s taken the reins from journeyman Sam Darnold, who led the Vikings to a playoff berth last season.

Although McCarthy had a rocky start on Monday, he rallied to score three touchdowns, leading the Vikings in their opening week.

Coach Kevin O’Connell expressed his admiration, stating, “The look in his eyes was amazing. The best thing was the belief I felt from the team and the unit. In the end, I can’t achieve this without him in the second half.”

Kuropas also celebrated her partner’s success on social media, saying, “I’m so proud of you! Keep showing them!”

The couple got engaged in January 2024, and now, they’ll be cheering on the Vikings as they face the Falcons this Sunday night.