J.J. McCarthy has made a name for himself on the gridiron. The former Michigan Wolverines quarterback turned NFL rising star has delivered clutch throws, survived sacks, and led dramatic fourth-quarter comebacks. But this fall, McCarthy is preparing for the most high-stakes role of his life — not as a quarterback, but as a father.

The 23-year-old football phenom and his wife, longtime partner and social media personality Katya Kuropas, are expecting their first child this fall. The couple announced the news in a heartfelt Instagram post earlier this week, captioned: “Our biggest blessing is on the way. Baby McCarthy coming Fall 2025.” The photo features McCarthy holding a tiny football-shaped baby onesie, both of them glowing with excitement — and maybe a touch of nerves.

From Playbooks to Parenting Books

McCarthy’s life has been a whirlwind since his standout 2023 season with the University of Michigan, where he led the Wolverines to a national championship and declared for the NFL Draft shortly after. Now in his second year in the NFL, he’s balancing the intense demands of professional football with an entirely new challenge: fatherhood.

“There’s no playbook for this,” McCarthy told reporters with a smile during a recent offseason media availability. “Football has taught me a lot about leadership, discipline, and resilience — and I think those lessons will help me be a great dad. But I know I’ve got a lot to learn.”

Sources close to the couple say McCarthy has already started devouring parenting books and has begun turning their guest room into a nursery, complete with maize-and-blue accents and a framed Michigan jersey on the wall.

Teammates React: “Captain Dad”

The news was met with congratulations — and good-natured teasing — from teammates, coaches, and former college teammates alike.

“Captain Dad — I love it,” joked one of McCarthy’s offensive linemen. “He better hope the baby sleeps through Sunday night games.”

Some teammates have already offered parenting advice, including those with young children of their own. A few even gifted him baby gear — including a miniature helmet and jersey embroidered with “McBaby.”

A Season of Transition

The fall of 2025 will undoubtedly be one of the most transformative seasons in McCarthy’s life, both personally and professionally. On the field, he’s poised to take the reins as starting quarterback for his NFL team after a year of learning the ropes. Off the field, he’s gearing up for sleepless nights, diaper changes, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with being a first-time parent.

Football and fatherhood may seem worlds apart, but McCarthy believes they’re more similar than most people realize.

“In both roles, you’ve got people depending on you — whether it’s your team or your family,” he said. “You’ve got to show up, stay calm under pressure, and give it everything you’ve got.”

A New Legacy

The McCarthy family has always been close-knit. J.J. has often spoken about the influence of his parents in shaping his character and work ethic. Now, he’s eager to pass that legacy on to the next generation.

“I want to be the kind of dad who shows up, who listens, and who inspires,” he said. “Whether my kid wants to play football, paint, or become a scientist — I’ll be cheering the loudest.”

He also mentioned his desire to be a hands-on father, even amid the demands of an NFL season. According to his inner circle, he’s already working with coaches and trainers to coordinate schedules that allow him to spend as much time at home as possible.

The Fans’ Perspective

Michigan fans and NFL followers alike have responded with enthusiasm to the announcement. Messages of support have poured in across social media, with fans praising McCarthy for embracing family life while continuing to chase excellence on the field.

“He led us to a national title — now he’s about to lead the next generation,” wrote one user on X. “Class act on and off the field.”

Looking Ahead

As McCarthy trains this offseason, he’s thinking about more than touchdowns and game plans. He’s also imagining first steps, bedtime stories, and one day, teaching his child how to throw a perfect spiral.

There’s no doubt that this fall will test McCarthy’s endurance, patience, and time management. But if his football career is any indication, he’s the type of guy who steps up when the moment demands it.

Whether it’s third-and-long in a packed stadium or a 3 a.m. feeding in the nursery, J.J. McCarthy is ready for it all. And this time, he’s not just playing for a championship — he’s playing for family.