Jared Lorenzen’s NFL career was a short, but memorable one, which sadly proved to emblematic of his life.
Lorenzen died on Wednesday at the age of 38, his family announced in a statement.
“It is with heavy hearts that the family of Jared Lorenzen would like to extend our sincere thanks and appreciation for all your support and prayers over the past 6 days. We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Jared today, July 3, 2019,” the statement read, per Matt Jones of KY Sports Radio. “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 information in the coming days. Please keep Jared’s family and especially his children, in your thoughts and prayers.”
We lost a great one too soon today. Our hearts are with the Lorenzen family.
We love you, 22. pic.twitter.com/btPrpk8knO
â Kentucky Football (@UKFootball)
July 3, 2019
Previously, Jones shared a statement from the family that, on June 28, Lorenzen was admitted to the intensive care unit as he was dealing with an infection, kidney and heart issues.
Listed at 6-foot-4, 285 pounds during his playing days, “The Hefty Lefty” put together a standout four-year career at Kentucky. He signed with the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent in 2004 and logged playing time in the 2006 and 2007 seasons, earning a Super Bowl ring in the latter.
“Jared was a special person, and a beloved Giant,” the team said in a statement. “He was an important member of our 2007 team, one that created its own destiny. Our thoughts are with Jared’s family and friends who loved and appreciated him so much. Just as our organization and our fans did.”
Lorenzen backed up Eli Manning, who was formerly an SEC rival at Ole Miss, during New York’s memorable run to a Super Bowl XLII triumph, where the Giants upset the New England Patriots, 17-14.
“Jared was a great teammate and friend,” Manning said in a statement. “We competed against each other in college and came to the Giants together in 2004. 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.”
Tom Coughlin, who coached Lorenzen during his time with the Giants, also released a statement.
“I’m shocked to learn of Jared’s passing,” he said. “Jared had a fun-loving, yet serious attitude. He was a good athlete, he had touch and versatility, and he was serious about trying to get his weight under control. Jared got along well with his teammates, and he contributed a lot in his hometown. He worked with young kids in teaching them the game of football. My thoughts are with Jared’s family and the Giants family. It’s sad to lose a kid who tried so hard to play again.”
In June of 2008, Lorenzen was released by the Giants and eventually signed by the Indianapolis Colts, but was waived during final cuts.