The 2025 NFL season has kicked off with a whirlwind of excitement for Minnesota Vikings’ rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy, both on and off the field. The 22-year-old former Michigan Wolverine is not only making waves with his arm and legs but also embracing a life-changing moment that has added a new layer of fire to his game. Amid the chaos of the season, his fiancée, Katya Kuropas, delivered a heartfelt message that’s fueling McCarthy’s drive as he navigates the highs and lows of his first year in the NFL.
On Friday, September 12, 2025, McCarthy and Kuropas welcomed their first child, a healthy baby boy named Rome Micah McCarthy. Weighing in at 8.7 pounds and measuring 21 inches long, little Rome has already become the couple’s biggest victory this season. The high school sweethearts, who announced their engagement in January 2024 and shared their pregnancy news in May, are now basking in the joy of parenthood. As McCarthy prepares for the bright lights of “Sunday Night Football,” Kuropas took to social media with a photo of their newborn and a simple, electrifying message: “Let’s go dada!!!” Those words have ignited a spark in McCarthy, giving him what he calls “dad power” as he steps onto the field.
McCarthy’s rookie campaign got off to a rocky start, but he’s already proving he’s got the grit to turn things around. In Week 1, the Vikings faced a tough battle against the Chicago Bears on “Monday Night Football.” Trailing 17-6 at halftime, McCarthy dug deep, channeling his poise and playmaking ability to orchestrate a thrilling 27-24 comeback victory. The young quarterback was sharp, completing 13 of 20 passes for 143 yards and two touchdowns, including a beauty to star wide receiver Justin Jefferson. McCarthy also showcased his dual-threat ability, rushing for 25 yards on two carries and punching in a touchdown on the ground.
The connection between McCarthy and Jefferson is already turning heads, with analysts buzzing about the potential for this duo to dominate the league. As the Vikings prepare to host the Atlanta Falcons in a prime-time showdown, McCarthy’s momentum—and his new role as a father—has fans expecting another electrifying performance.
The Vikings’ schedule is no walk in the park, and McCarthy’s mettle will be tested in the coming weeks. After the Falcons game, Minnesota welcomes Joe Burrow and the undefeated Cincinnati Bengals to U.S. Bank Stadium in Week 3. Then, the team embarks on a rare international adventure, facing the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin in Week 4, followed by a clash with the Cleveland Browns in London in Week 5. The Vikings will catch their breath with a bye week before returning home to take on the formidable Philadelphia Eagles on October 19.
For McCarthy, the support of Kuropas and their newborn son is the ultimate motivation. The couple’s journey, from high school sweethearts to NFL power couple, has captured the hearts of fans. Kuropas’ fiery words of encouragement are more than just a cheer—they’re a reminder of the stakes McCarthy is playing for, both on the field and at home. As he steps into the spotlight, the rookie quarterback is carrying the weight of a franchise and the love of his growing family.
With “dad power” in his corner and a playbook full of promise, J.J. McCarthy is ready to take on the NFL storm—one touchdown, one game, and one heartfelt moment at a time.