In news that will undoubtedly devastate fans of the New York Giants and the University of Kentucky, quarterback Jared Lorenzen has died at the age of 38.
Days after being admitted to the hospital and placed in the ICU with an infection and other serious health-related conditions, Lorenzen passed away with his family at his side.
Lorenzen’s family confirmed his passing to ESPN’s Jeremy Schaap.
Lorenzen’s family later offered the following statement:
The news of Lorenzen’s passing comes just hours after optimism was expressed over an uneventful weekend that saw what was perceived to be some level of progress.
Lorenzen starred at Kentucky before signing with the Giants as a rookie free agent in 2004. He would remain with the organization through the 2007 season, serving as Eli Manning’s backup and winning a championship ring as part of the Super Bowl XLII team.
After his time with Big Blue, Lorenzen was with the Indianapolis Colts for training camp in 2008 before moving on to indoor football leagues.
After his playing professional playing career had ended, Lorenzen ballooned up to over 550 pounds before a remarkable weight-loss battle in which he dropped over 100 pounds during the first year. The transformation was documented on a YouTube exclusive series, “The Lorenzen Project.”
In four career games with the Giants, Lorenzen completed four of his eight pass attempts for 28 yards. He added two rushes for four yards.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Lorenzen’s family and friends. Once a Giant, always a Giant.
