JJ McCarthy’s fiancée Katya steals hearts showing off baby boy’s adorable Vikings outfit after emotional win vs. Lions | NFL News
J.J. McCarthy made his long-awaited comeback in grand style, leading the Minnesota Vikings to a thrilling 27-24 road win over the Detroit Lions on Sunday. After missing five games with a sprained ankle, McCarthy’s performance reminded everyone why he’s one of the NFL’s most promising young quarterbacks. Throwing for 143 yards and two clutch touchdowns, he powered Minnesota to a .500 record and back into NFC North contention—just as both the Lions and Packers stumbled on the same day.But as much as Sunday was about redemption on the field, it was also about family off it.
Katya Kuropas and baby Rome cheer for Vikings’ star J.J. McCarthy
Just weeks after welcoming their first child, McCarthy’s fiancée Katya Kuropas celebrated her partner’s big win in the sweetest way possible. She shared an adorable photo of baby Rome dressed in his tiny Vikings onesie, calling him dad’s “No. 1 fan.” Born on September 12, little Rome has already become the heart of McCarthy’s world—and the newest symbol of joy for the young couple.
JJ McCarthy’s baby boy becomes instant star after Katya shares adorable Vikings outfit following big Lions win (Katya Kuropas/Instagram)
McCarthy and Kuropas’ love story began long before the NFL lights. They met back in high school at Nazareth Academy in Illinois and have been inseparable ever since. Even when McCarthy transferred to IMG Academy during the pandemic, their bond only grew stronger. After McCarthy led the Michigan Wolverines to the 2024 NCAA Championship, he proposed—marking a new chapter in their journey.Their romance has always been filled with genuine affection. On Kuropas’ birthday in January 2025, McCarthy penned a touching message to his “Queen,” writing, “She’s my everything – my muse, my rock, and the heart of my universe. For what is a flame without its wick. A Viking without a star to guide him. Thank you forever, my love, for never wavering when the inevitable storms arise on our voyage together.”
From college glory to family milestones
The couple’s relationship has unfolded beautifully both in private and public. In May 2025, they shared that they were expecting their first child, posting, “The best surprises come when you least expect them. Our sweet baby boy is arriving in September and we couldn’t be happier🩵🍼.”A few months later, their dream came true. They introduced their son to the world, writing, “Welcome to the world Rome Micah McCarthy ✨The sweetest, most perfect gift from God!! We are so unbelievably blessed to be your parents💙.”As McCarthy continues to rise in the NFL, it’s clear that his biggest win isn’t just on the field—it’s the family waiting for him at home.More coverage on NFL:You won’t believe which costume made Travis Kelce win his high school Halloween contest 20 years agoChiefs’ Travis Kelce suffers scary blow vs Bills, then unleashes strong message to rival fans afterwardDespite rumors about trouble in marriage, Josh Allen shuts down the noise as he calls Hailee Steinfeld his emotional ‘rock’