Jared Lorenzen, former Kentucky and New York Giants quarterback, dies aged 38
Jared Lorenzen, former Kentucky and New York Giants quarterback, died Wednesday July 3. He was 38. The University of Kentucky confirmed his death in a tweet Wednesday afternoon. Dubbed the 'Hefty Lefty' by fans due to his gargantuan size and arm strength, Lorenzen has been hospitalized since Friday with an infection, kidney and heart issues.
As reported by Courier-Journal, his family shared a statement with Matt Jones, Lorenzen's former employer with Kentucky Sports Radio. It read: "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 6 days."
"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. We will offer arrangement and information in the coming days. Please keep Jared's family and especially his children, in your thoughts and prayers," the statement said.
On Tuesday, the family said he was placed on dialysis. The quarterback dished out some record-breaking performances while playing in the Southeastern Conference. He still holds the University of Kentucky records for career total offense (10,637 yards), career passing yards (10,354), career pass attempts (1,514), career completions (862), single-season passing attempts (559) and single-game passing yards (528). He ranks second in program history in career passing touchdowns (78) and 300-yard passing games (15).
Soon after his playing days, his 6-foot, 4-inch frame topped 500 pounds, according to Kentucky Sport. He tried to address the issue by declaring publicly that he would strive towards maintaining a healthy lifestyle. His 'Jared Lorenzen Project' became a health and wellness tour, and also the subject of a documentary by noted filmmaker Anthony Holt and a segment on ESPN’s 'E:60' series.