Debut Dubs & Diapers: J.J. McCarthy’s Double Victory Week

By: Sreeja Nallamala

J.J. McCarthy and Katya Kuropas' newborn son, Rome Micah McCarthy. People

Some weeks feel like they could change everything, and for J.J. McCarthy, this one did. On Monday night, the 22-year-old rookie quarterback finally took the field for his first NFL game. He led the Minnesota Vikings to a 27–24 comeback win over the Chicago Bears in primetime. By Friday, he and his fiancée, Katya Kuropas, were holding their baby boy, Rome Micah McCarthy, for the very first time. It was the kind of week where football and family blended together in the sweetest way.

Even with everything happening off the field, McCarthy stayed steady. He flew home with the team Monday night, jumped into game planning on Tuesday, and was back at practice Wednesday. On Thursday, he joined meetings in the morning before coach Kevin O’Connell told him to head home and be with Kuropas as she prepared for the baby’s arrival. Less than a day later, Rome was here.

The debut in Chicago could not have been better scripted. Born in Evanston, IL, and raised in La Grange Park, just outside the city, McCarthy was back in his hometown with a chance to prove himself. After sitting out his entire rookie season with a knee injury, there were plenty of doubts, but under the lights, he looked calm and confident. His late-game throws sealed the victory, and the fact that it happened in front of friends and family made it all the more special.

J.J. McCarthy celebrating his NFL debut win in Chicago. KTVZ

His teammates could not help but celebrate both wins with him. Star wide receiver Justin Jefferson sent a heartfelt message: “If you seeing this now, congratulations my boy, congratulations. But after you get done, come on back!”

Wide Receiver Justin Jefferson and Quarterback J.J. McCarthy. NFL

For McCarthy, the timing feels almost poetic. Last year, he was sidelined and waiting, unsure when his moment would come. This week, everything seemed to arrive at once: his first NFL win, his first game in the city where he grew up, and his first child.

Now, with baby Rome at home and another big game on the horizon against the Atlanta Falcons, McCarthy steps into both fatherhood and franchise-quarterback life at the same time. Two roles, two new beginnings, and plenty of people cheering him on for both.

Edited by: Megan Livengood