Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy Welcomes Baby Boy Amid NFL Breakthrough

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy and his fiancée Katya Kuropas welcomed their first child, a baby boy named Rome Micah McCarthy, marking a remarkable week for the young athlete. McCarthy missed practice on Thursday to be with Kuropas at the hospital, with Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell expressing joy over the milestone and excusing McCarthy from practice without hesitation. This joyful personal event followed McCarthy's impressive NFL debut, where he led the Vikings to a thrilling 27-24 comeback victory over the Chicago Bears, throwing two touchdowns and rushing for one in the fourth quarter, earning him the NFC Offensive Player of the Week honor. The couple, who have been together since high school and engaged since January 2024, announced the pregnancy in May 2025, sharing their excitement with fans on social media. Teammates and coaches have offered congratulations and encouragement, recognizing both McCarthy's on-field talent and his new role as a father. McCarthy is expected to return for the Vikings' first home game following this life-changing week.