Former Kentucky and NFL quarterback Jared Lorenzen died Wednesday, his family announced. Lorenzen, 38, was hospitalized last week and battled cardiac and renal issues. The family of Lorenzen, who is Kentucky's all-time passing leader, released a statement confirming his death and asking for privacy.
"It is with heavy hearts that the family of Jared Lorenzen would like to extend our sincere thanks and appreciation for all of your support and prayers over the past six days," Lorenzen's mother, Janet Hermes, said in a statement. "We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Jared today, July 3, 2019. Again, we appreciate all of the warm wishes and prayers, but as a family, we would request your respect and privacy at this time. We will offer arrangement information in the coming days. Please keep Jared's family and especially his children, in your thoughts and prayers."
Lorenzen, who was hospitalized because of an infection and heart problems, battled weight issues both during and after his career, but was noted for his success as a signal-caller despite his unusual size for the position. He was 6-4 and his listed playing weight was 285, though he often tipped the scales at 300 or more during his career. He was known for being good-natured about nicknames such as "The Hefty Lefty," "He Ate Me" and "Pillsbury Throwboy."
In July 2017, Lorenzen started the "Jared Lorenzen Project," a series of videos that documented his struggles with obesity and his determination to overcome them. Lorenzen weighed nearly 600 pounds in the first episode and gravely told viewers he "would die in five years" if he didn't lose the weight. He talked of withdrawing socially because of his insecurity about his weight and the effort needed for basic tasks such as tying his shoes.
Lorenzen threw for 10,354 yards with 78 touchdowns and 41 interceptions at Kentucky. He signed with the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent in 2004 and spent parts of four seasons as a backup to Eli Manning. He was waived by the Indianapolis Colts in 2008.
Manning said in a statement that Lorenzen was "a great teammate and friend."
"We competed against each other in college and came to the Giants together," wrote Manning, who played against Lorenzen's Kentucky team during his playing days at Ole Miss. "My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. I will always remember his competitive spirit and his good nature. Jared has left us all way too soon."
