J.J. McCarthy, a rising NFL quarterback drafted 10th overall by the Minnesota Vikings, has experienced a tumultuous 18 months since winning a national championship with Michigan. His NFL journey began with a significant setback when he tore his meniscus in his right knee, sidelining him for the entire season while Sam Darnold played as the Vikings' starting quarterback. Despite this, McCarthy was named the team's starter and captain for the upcoming season after Darnold's departure to the Seahawks. His first NFL game was marked by a comeback victory over the Chicago Bears, silencing critics, and just days later, he and his high school sweetheart fiancée, Katya Kuropas, announced the birth of their son, Rome. McCarthy and Kuropas, who met at Nazareth Academy and have been together since 2018, got engaged in January 2024 following his college championship win. McCarthy has been supported by Kuropas throughout his career at high school, college, and now professional level. His recent performance in a game against the Washington Commanders, where he completed 16 of 23 passes for 163 yards and three touchdowns without turnovers, is viewed as a promising sign for his future. However, with the Vikings out of playoff contention, his long-term position remains uncertain, and the team may explore other quarterback options in the offseason.