Former Kentucky quarterback and college football fan favorite Jared Lorenzen, 38, died on Wednesday following a battle with health concerns including an infection, kidney and heart issues. The family of Lorenzen announced his death today with a brief statement and thanked fans for their support during a troubling and alarming time in the life of the former Wildcats quarterback.
Here is a statement from the family of Jared Lorenzen pic.twitter.com/vTJn2gdNU5
— Matt Jones (@KySportsRadio) July 3, 2019
Lorenzen was a home town hero in Kentucky. After being named Mr. Football in the state of Kentucky in 1998, Lorenzen went on to play his college football for the Wildcats under former head coach Hal Mumme. Taking over as the starting quarterback for Kentucky as a redshirt freshman, Lorenzen started all 11 games and passed for 3,687 yards and 19 touchdowns, with 21 interceptions. He dramatically improved his touchdown-to-interception ratio the following three years with a combined total of 59 touchdowns and 20 interceptions from 2001 through 2003. He also added 12 rushing touchdowns in his college career.
Though Kentucky never had more than one winning season while Lorenzen was in Lexington, he was the star of the program. Most notable for his size, Lorenzen became a fan favorite as he continued to play with immense heart and dedication anyone could respect and appreciate. By the end of his career at Kentucky, Lorenzen set school records in total offense, passing yards, and passing touchdowns previously held by Tim Couch. Lorenzen was not drafted but spent four years with the New York Giants of the NFL (he only had 28 career passing yards but did win a Super Bowl ring with the Giants) and multiple seasons in smaller arena football leagues at teams located in Kentucky.
We send our condolences to the Lorenzen and Kentucky football family.
We lost a great one too soon today. Our hearts are with the Lorenzen family.
— Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) July 3, 2019
We love you, 22. pic.twitter.com/btPrpk8knO
We are heartbroken for Jared’s family and friends. Since I’ve been here, it has been obvious that he was one of the most popular players in school history. He was a proud member of the Kentucky football family and he will be greatly missed by the Big Blue Nation. https://t.co/9NHMzR5rz4
— Mark Stoops (@UKCoachStoops) July 3, 2019
“Jared was a great teammate and friend. We competed against each other in college and came to the Giants together. 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.”
— New York Giants (@Giants) July 3, 2019
-Eli Manning pic.twitter.com/OdgZYZ4xvL
Thanks for the memories, J Lo. #22 pic.twitter.com/5gmEe3Bq4p
— Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) July 3, 2019
