Cardinals rookie Carson Beck shines in Hall of Fame Game

In his first professional appearance, rookie quarterback Carson Beck delivered a promising performance for the Arizona Cardinals in the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game on Thursday, August 6, 2026. Beck, starting the preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio, completed 15 of 19 passes for 188 yards and a touchdown, leading multiple scoring drives before exiting in the third quarter.

The Cardinals ultimately lost the exhibition contest 33-30 after a late Carolina comeback, but Beck’s efficient debut became the primary storyline. The 24-year-old, selected 65th overall in the third round of this year’s NFL Draft, directed a 96-yard touchdown drive and connected on a 49-yard deep pass to Jalen Brooks. He later threw a 5-yard touchdown to Simi Fehoko, demonstrating poise and downfield accuracy.

Head coach Mike LaFleur said he was proud of Beck’s performance and not surprised by it, calling it a good first stepping stone. Beck himself expressed gratitude for the opportunity, noting he had been eager to play football again. He acknowledged there would be areas to improve upon after reviewing the game film.