Cardinals Host Panthers in NFL Hall of Fame Game 2026

The NFL’s 107th season officially begins Thursday, August 6, 2026, as the Arizona Cardinals face the Carolina Panthers in the annual Pro Football Hall of Fame Game at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio. The 8 p.m. ET exhibition, broadcast nationally on NBC, traditionally kicks off the league’s preseason schedule while honoring the newest Hall of Fame inductees.

This year’s matchup was specifically chosen to celebrate two members of the 2026 induction class: Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald and Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly, both of whom spent their entire careers with the franchises playing Thursday. The class also includes quarterback Drew Brees, kicker Adam Vinatieri, and running back Roger Craig, who will be recognized during pregame ceremonies ahead of their formal enshrinement on Saturday, August 8.

As is customary for the preseason opener, both teams are resting most of their established starters, placing backups and roster hopefuls in the spotlight. Carolina head coach Dave Canales confirmed starting quarterback Bryce Young will not play. Veteran Kenny Pickett, signed this offseason to be Young’s primary backup, will start for the Panthers, with...