Former University of Kentucky and New York Giants backup quarterback Jared Lorenzen died Wednesday afternoon at the age of 38.
Lorenzen had been hospitalized over the past few days due to kidney, heart issues and an infection.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Jared,” Lorenzen’s family said in a statement through Matt Jones of Kentucky Sports Radio. “We appreciate all the warm wishes and prayers, but as a family, we would request your respect and privacy.”
Lorenzen played four seasons at Kentucky (2000-03) and led the SEC in passing yards (3,687) as a freshman. He still holds the Wildcats’ record for career passing yards with 10,354.
Despite his collegiate success, he was undrafted in 2004 and later signed with the New York Giants as a free agent, backing up Eli Manning in 2006-07. He appeared in four games, completing four passes for 28 yards, and was a member of the Super Bowl XLII-winning team.
“Jared was a great teammate and friend,” Manning said. “I will always remember his competitive spirit and his good nature. Jared has left us all way too soon.”
Because of his weight, which was listed at 285 pounds in his NFL career, he was nicknamed the “Hefty Lefty.” Weight continued to be an issue for Lorenzen after retirement and he said it climbed to more than 500 pounds.
In 2017, he launched The Jared Lorenzen Project, a videotaped weight-loss journey. He lost about 100 pounds within the first year.
“Jared was a special person, and a beloved Giant,” the New York Giants said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with Jared’s family and friends who loved and appreciated him so much. Just as our organization and our fans did.”
