Former Kentucky quarterback Jared Lorenzen, who once threw for 528 yards in a game against Georgia, died Wednesday after a battle with cardiac and renal issues, his family confirmed to ESPN.

Lorenzen, 38, battled weight issues throughout his career. He weighed over 300 pounds in college and reportedly weighed over 500 pounds in 2017.

He was hospitalized last week.

Lorenzen completed 39 of 58 passes against the Bulldogs in a 2000 game, but Georgia prevailed 34-30. Bulldogs backup QB Cory Phillips started the game and threw for 400 yards.

Lorenzen passed for 377 yards against Georgia in 2001 but never beat the Bulldogs in four tries in his college career.

"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," Lorenzen's mother, Janet Hermes, said in a statement. "We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Jared today, July 3, 2019."

Lorenzen also had a short NFL career, serving as a backup for the Giants and Colts.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Georgia running back Nate Frazier reacts after a run for a 22-yard gain during the first half against Georgia Tech in their NCAA game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Friday, Nov. 28, 2025, in Atlanta, Ga. Georgia won 16-9. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com

Featured

Austin Walters died from an overdose in 2021 after taking a Xanax pill laced with fentanyl, his father said. A new law named after Austin and aimed at preventing deaths from fentanyl has resulted in its first convictions in Georgia, prosecutors said. (Family photo)

Credit: Family photo