McCarthy’s week could hardly be scripted any better. On Monday night, the rookie quarterback led the Minnesota Vikings to a thrilling comeback win in his first NFL start. By Friday, he and his fiancee Katya Kuropas announced the birth of their first child, a baby boy named Rome Micah McCarthy.
From first start to first son
McCarthy’s NFL career started with fireworks. In prime time at Soldier Field, he engineered a fourth-quarter rally that flipped a 10-point deficit into a 27-24 win over the rival Chicago Bears. The rookie threw three touchdowns in the final quarter, showing poise and playmaking that instantly had Vikings fans buzzing.
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Only days later, life off the field changed just as dramatically. Kuropas gave birth on Friday, and the couple shared their joy with the world. McCarthy left the team facility on Thursday morning to be with her, according to head coach Kevin O’Connell.
“Congratulations to my boy,” star wideout Justin Jefferson said after practice. “I’m excited for him and this new chapter. But after you get done, come on back, we’ve got games to win.”
A rapid rise for Minnesota’s new leader
The 22-year-old McCarthy entered the league as the No. 10 overall pick in the 2024 draft but never saw the field last season due to a torn meniscus. That year of waiting has quickly turned into fuel, with his debut reminding many in Minnesota why the franchise made him its quarterback of the future.
With the Falcons coming to U.S. Bank Stadium on Sunday night, McCarthy is expected to be under center again, balancing fatherhood with the high pressure of leading a playoff-ready team.
Vikings’ future feels different
For a franchise still chasing its first Super Bowl, McCarthy’s emergence couldn’t come at a better time. Minnesota now has its quarterback of the future, and fans just watched him deliver a statement win before stepping into fatherhood.
One unforgettable week later, J.J. McCarthy isn’t just the Vikings’ new hope. He’s also a brand-new dad.
Now it's time to see how he can be under center, as a new dad!
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