Inside Minnesota Vikings' QB, J.J. McCarthy And Fiancee, Katya's Love Story And Life As New Parents

J.J. McCarthy has been shining on the field with his NFL debut as the quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings. As his professional goals come to life, so do his personal dreams. The young star recently got engaged to his high school sweetheart, Katya Kuropas, and has now welcomed their first child together. The couple's love story started at Nazareth Academy in La Grange Park, Illinois, and has since grown into a lifelong partnership. From being his number one cheerleader in school to cheering him on with their newborn, Katya has been J.J.'s rock.

J.J. McCarthy and Katya Kuropas navigated a long-distance relationship during the COVID-19 pandemic, supporting each other through college football and into the NFL. Their bond has only strengthened over the years, and J.J. has regularly thanked his beloved for never leaving his side, calling her his 'muse', 'rock' and 'the heart of his universe' on social media. His emotional tributes underscore the profound impact she has had on both his personal life and professional journey. So, without any further ado, let's take a look at their love story so far.

J.J. McCarthy and Katya Kuropas met in high school

J.J. McCarthy began dating Katya Kuropas in October 2018, when both were still students at Nazareth Academy. Even after J.J. transferred to IMG Academy in Florida due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the couple remained committed to one another, navigating the long distance with love and loyalty. They marked three years together in 2021, with J.J. calling Katya 'the love of my life' in an adoring social media post. 

J.J. McCarthy has praised her unwavering support on several occasions, describing Katya as someone who possesses a pure heart and soul. Their teenage romance has since blossomed into a lifelong bond marked by love, loyalty and major milestones. 

J.J. McCarthy and Katya Kuropas have been together for six years

J.J. McCarthy and Katya Kuropas have withstood the test of time and distance. After graduating from high school in 2021, J.J. enrolled at the University of Michigan, where he became the star quarterback in 2022. However, no matter where he went or what phase of life he was in, Katya remained a constant in his life. The star thanked his lady love on their fifth anniversary in October 2023 for helping him become the best version of himself and described their relationship as something he will cherish forever. 

Katya Kuropas has been J.J. McCarthy's No. 1 fan since day one

Whether it was Ann Arbour or the NFL, Katya Kuropas has been the biggest cheerleader in the stands during J.J. McCarthy's games. She often shared the behind-the-scenes from game days on her VSCO, showing her support for J.J. while donning his team's colours with utmost pride. The couple has won over the hearts of their fans with their equal devotion towards one another. Before the NFL Draft, she reminisced on their shared journey, calling the season a 'blessing' and looking forward to their next chapter.

J.J. McCarthy and Katya Kuropas love to travel together and share a close bond with each other's families

From mountain hikes to boat days, J.J. McCarthy and Katya Kuropas enjoy travelling together and documenting their adventures. In July 2023, she posted a picture from their summer trip on a boat. A year later, they shared a cosy scenic trip to the mountains. The trips are something they bond over beyond the field and the spotlight.

Katya Kuropas is not only close to J.J. McCarthy but also his family. She shared a strong bond with them and is often accompanied by J.J.'s parents to the games. During Michigan's New Year's Eve game in 2022, despite the team losing to the Wolverines, Katya and J.J.'s family became the highlight of the evening, showing how she is not just his lover but a part of the McCarthy inner circle, fully integrated into the quarterback's personal life and support system both on and off the gridiron.

J.J. McCarthy and Katya Kuropas got engaged in January 2024

After more than five years together, J.J. McCarthy and Katya Kuropas finally took the big step, as the quarterback got down on one knee. He proposed to the love of his life on a beach on January 20, 2024. The pair announced their special moment with a joint Instagram post, and also introduced the world to their new puppy, Marley.

The pictures beautifully captured their love and the dreamy proposal. The moment marked a new chapter in their relationship, cementing their plans to build a future together. The Instagram post could be read as:

"Me, You & Marley Forever & Ever."

J.J. McCarthy and Katya Kuropas welcome their first child

In September 2025, the couple became first-time parents. J.J. McCarthy and Katya Kuropas welcomed their first child, a son, Rome Micah McCarthy. It was on September 9, 2025, when J.J. skipped practice to be with Katya after she went into labour, and three days later, they announced the arrival of their little angel. Days later, on September 15, 2025, Katya Kuropas and little Rome were seen cheering J.J. McCarthy on his team's Week 2 match against the Atlanta Falcons. Katya shared a picture of their baby dressed in his dad's number 9 Vikings jersey, showing her support for him.

What are your thoughts on J.J. McCarthy and Katya Kuropas' journey? Let us know.

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