Carolina Panthers and Arizona Cardinals Compete in 2026 NFL Hall of Fame Game

The 2026 NFL Hall of Fame Game is set to take place tonight at 8 p.m. ET, featuring a matchup between the Carolina Panthers and the Arizona Cardinals. This game marks the beginning of the NFL preseason and is traditionally held to kick off the season.

Tonight's game will also see the head coaching debut of Mike LaFleur for the Cardinals, who was appointed in February following the dismissal of Jonathan Gannon. Additionally, Carson Beck, a former quarterback for the Miami Hurricanes, will make his NFL debut as the starting quarterback for Arizona after being selected in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The Hall of Fame Game precedes the enshrinement ceremony for the Class of 2026, which includes notable players such as Drew Brees, Larry Fitzgerald, Luke Kuechly, and Adam Vinatieri. Coverage of the enshrinement ceremony will be available on ESPN and the NFL Network on August 8.