J.J. McCarthy’s fiancée Katya Kuropas said goodbye to their college life ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft on Thursday.
The former Michigan quarterback, who led the Wolverines to a national title in his final season, is projected as a top-10 pick.
“Extremely delayed but… Reminiscing on how amazing this past season was. An abundance of blessings and the best memories,” Kuropas wrote in a post on Instagram. “Feeling so grateful for everything that unfolded & for everyone that was part of it!! Sad to see this chapter go, but excited for the next one.”
Kuropas shared a bunch of photos with friends and her fiancée, including snaps of her tailgating with them at Michigan football games.
One photo featured her leaning over the wall at Michigan Stadium and kissing McCarthy after a game.
“Drop dead gorgeous,” McCarthy wrote in the comments.
The high school sweethearts got engaged in January 2024, as seen in a joint Instagram post.
“Me, You & Marley Forever & Ever,” they wrote in the caption, referring to their English Cream Golden Retriever.
McCarthy and Kuropa’s engagement photos took place on a beach, where she showed off her stunning diamond engagement ring.
The quarterback proposed just two weeks after taking home a national championship when No. 1-seeded Michigan beat No. 2 Washington, 34-13, at NRG Stadium in January.
The couple — who began dating when they both were in high school at Nazareth Academy in La Grange Park, Ill. — celebrated their fifth year of dating in October 2023.
McCarthy’s draft stock continued to rise in the days leading up to the draft, with some reports saying he could be selected as high as No. 3.
The 21-year-old explained he was relishing in “the calm before the storm” during an appearance on “The Rich Eisen Show” on Wednesday.
“I’m just trying to soak it all in because you only get to do this one,” McCarthy said from Detroit. “Obviously, making my rounds … going to every coach and telling them how much I appreciate them for how much they’ve done throughout this process.
“We’re just going through this whole process of being a ‘GAM,’ a grown ass man. It’s a fun process but I’m ready to get going, that’s for sure.”
McCarthy said he’s taken personal visits with the Giants, Patriots and Commanders.
New England and Washington have the No. 2 and No. 3 overall picks, respectively, and the Giants pick at No. 6.
