WATCH: ‘Pumped up’ JJ McCarthy kisses girlfriend Katya Kuropas after getting drafted by Vikings as their 10th overall pick

JJ McCarthy kissed his girlfriend after he was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings (Image via IMAGO/ Screengrab X)

After the New York Giants passed on the opportunity to select JJ McCarthy for the 6th spot, the opportunity fell to the Minnesota Vikings. General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah did not waste any time and exercised their 10th pick to draft the 2023 CFP champion.

McCarthy became the 5th quarterback to be selected in the top 10 of the 2024 draft. The Chicago Bears picked Caleb Williams as No. 1, followed by the Washington Commanders selecting Jayden Daniels at No. 2, and the New England Patriots went with Drake Maye at No. 3.

As a matter of fact, Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network revealed that the Vikings had an interest in Maye. Mensah, along with the Giants, contacted the Patriots for a trade, which was rejected.

Then the Giants shocked the entire country by passing on McCarthy and drafting Malik Nabers at 6. Eventually, the Vikings landed the former Wolverine.

Even though the draft was held in Detroit, McCarthy wasn’t present at the venue like Williams or Nabers. Instead, he was at home, surrounded by his and his girlfriend Katya Kuropas‘ family.

After NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell made it official, the 21-year-old put on the iconic Vikings hat with a big smile on his face. McCarthy then leaned over and kissed Katya, who was sitting next to him on the couch.

JJ McCarthy and Katya Kuropas are high school sweethearts

The New Minnesota Vikings quarterback JJ McCarthy and Katya Kuropas have known each other since their high school days. They started dating six years ago, in 2018.

I can’t believe it’s been 4 years, my lovey. High school sweethearts, but it feels like I’ve known you since the playpen. Blessed and extremely grateful for your love and pure heart. Together, forever, whatever life brings.

JJ McCarthy wrote

Earlier this year, the pair shared news of their engagement as McCarthy announced it for the draft. They posted behind-the-scenes photos in which both opted for all whites.

Me, You, & Marley Forever & Ever

Katya Kuropas wrote in her caption

A few weeks ago, the couple visited the Detroit Zoo, where they petted penguins.

McCarthy will now move on to a new challenge in Minnesota. After veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins left for Atlanta, the Vikings needed a new franchise quarterback. There’s hardly anyone better than the man who has a 27-1 record in college football.