J.J. McCarthy, quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, and his fiancee Katya Kuropas, are at the local hospital now, getting ready to welcome their first child, a baby boy. Head coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed this. Meanwhile McCarthy just had his first NFL start and was named NFC Offensive Player of the Week for his performance. He led the Vikings to a comeback win over the Chicago Bears in a 27-24 game. This marks one of the biggest weeks of his life—on the field and off.
J.J. McCarthy’s first NFL start and Player of the Week honour
On Monday night, September 8, 2025, McCarthy made his official Vikings quarterback debut against the Chicago Bears. McCarthy had his rough moment in the third quarter when he threw a pick-six that gave Chicago the lead. However, McCarthy did not stay negative. In fact, he led the team through the fourth quarter to score 21 unanswered points. McCarthy threw two passing touchdowns and rushed for one. The Vikings won, 27-24. Ultimately, he was named the NFC Offensive Player of the Week for week 1. Coaches mentioned his cool demeanor and that he was able to focus during pressure situations.
Also Read:
Did Shilo Sanders Land With An NFL Team? Latest Update On The Ex-Colorado Buffaloes Standout
Katya Kuropas and McCarthy prepare for parenthood
Katya Kuropas and J.J. McCarthy met in high school and have been together ever since. They got engaged in January of 2024, in May of 2025 they announced they were expecting their first child, a baby boy, due in September. Well here they are at the hospital, getting ready for the birth.Coach Kevin O’Connell spoke to media and confirmed McCarthy didn’t join Vikings’ practice on Thursday because he is there with Katya at the hospital. Fans are excited, and many are sending good wishes. The timing is big, McCarthy is rising in the NFL, with that great first start, and now becoming a father. The couple has shared moments from their journey on social media, which has kept supporters closely connected.