Cardinals fall short in thrilling game to kickoff 2026 NFL preseason

The Arizona Cardinals opened the 2026 NFL preseason with a dramatic 33–30 loss to the Carolina Panthers on Thursday night, but the final score was only part of the story in Canton, Ohio.

Playing at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, the Cardinals helped launch a weekend celebrating franchise icon Larry Fitzgerald, who will be formally enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Saturday. The first-ballot selection will enter alongside Drew Brees, Roger Craig, Luke Kuechly and Adam Vinatieri.

Arizona nearly gave its legendary receiver another memorable Cardinals victory.

After the teams entered halftime tied at 17, the Cardinals carried a 20–17 advantage into the fourth quarter. Carolina responded during a wild final period in which the teams combined for 26 points.

Arizona appeared to have secured the game when Bryson Green made an impressive sliding touchdown catch near the sideline, giving the Cardinals a 30–27 lead with 1:55 remaining. But Carolina quarterback Haynes King directed one final drive and scored on a five-yard run with only two seconds left, delivering the Panthers a 33–30 victory.

King completed 21 of 34 passes for 180 yards and two touchdowns after replacing starter Kenny Pickett. He also rushed for 39 yards and scored the decisive touchdown.

For Arizona, rookie quarterback Carson Beck offered an encouraging first look. The third-round selection completed 15 of 19 passes for 188 yards and a touchdown, displaying the accuracy and composure that could make him an important part of the Cardinals’ future.

While preseason results do not count in the standings, the high-scoring contest gave Arizona’s coaching staff its first opportunity to evaluate rookies, reserves and players competing for roster positions. It also marked the beginning of a new era under head coach Mike LaFleur.