Jeremy Schaap reflects on the life and legacy of former Kentucky and NFL quarterback Jared Lorenzen, who has died at the age of 38. (3:11)

Former Kentucky and NFL quarterback Jared Lorenzen died Wednesday after a battle with cardiac and renal issues. He was 38.

Lorenzen, who struggled with his weight both during and after his playing career, was hospitalized last week.

"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.

"Again, we appreciate all of the warm wishes and prayers, but as a family, we would request your respect and privacy at this time. We will offer arrangement information in the coming days. Please keep Jared's family, and especially his children, in your thoughts and prayers."

Kentucky's football program paid tribute to Lorenzen on Twitter.

We lost a great one too soon today. Our hearts are with the Lorenzen family.



We love you, 22. pic.twitter.com/btPrpk8knO — Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) July 3, 2019

Lorenzen became a star at Kentucky because of his record-setting passing accomplishments and his size.

Nicknamed the "Hefty Lefty" and weighing more than 300 pounds, Lorenzen became Kentucky's all-time leader in passing yards (10,354), completions (862) and total offense (10,637 yards).

Lorenzen was elected to the UK Athletics Hall of Fame in 2015.

"We are deeply saddened to learn of Jared Lorenzen's passing,'' Kentucky athletic director Mitch Barnhart said in a statement, adding, "He was a true Wildcat and a man whose love for the University of Kentucky was plain to see well after his playing days were over.''

Lorenzen signed as an undrafted free agent with the Giants in 2004 and spent parts of four seasons with New York. Lorenzen was on the squad that upset the unbeaten New England Patriots 17-14 in Super Bowl XLII in 2008. He signed with the Indianapolis Colts in July 2008 but was waived before the start of the season.

play 2:19 SVP: Lorenzen left his mark on a lot of folks Scott Van Pelt and Stanford Steve share their memories of Jared Lorenzen, who died Wednesday at the age of 38.

The Giants tweeted that Lorenzen "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 fans did."

Giants quarterback Eli Manning said in a statement that Lorenzen was "a great teammate and friend."

"We competed against each other in college and came to the Giants together," wrote Manning, who played against Lorenzen's Kentucky team while at Ole Miss. "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."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.