Panthers to Face Cardinals in NFL Hall of Fame Exhibition Game

Game kicks off NFL preseason calendar ahead of Luke Kuechly's Hall of Fame induction

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The Carolina Panthers will play the Arizona Cardinals on Thursday, Aug. 6 in Canton, Ohio, for the annual Hall of Fame Game. The game precedes Hall of Fame inductions on Aug. 8, where Panthers legend Luke Kuechly will be inducted as the first player to spend his entire career with the team to be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Why it matters

The Hall of Fame Game is traditionally the first preseason exhibition, marking the start of the NFL season. Kuechly's induction is a significant milestone for the Panthers franchise, as he becomes the first player to spend his entire career with the team to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

The details

Kuechly, a 7-time Pro Bowl selection and 2010s All-Decade Team member, will be joined in the 2026 Hall of Fame class by Drew Brees, Roger Craig, Larry Fitzgerald and Adam Vinatieri. Other notable Panthers defensive stars previously inducted into the Hall of Fame include Kevin Greene, Sam Mills, Julius Peppers and Reggie White.

  • The Hall of Fame Game will be played on Thursday, August 6, 2026.
  • The Hall of Fame inductions will take place on Saturday, August 8, 2026.

The players

Luke Kuechly

A 7-time Pro Bowl selection and 2010s All-Decade Team member, Kuechly will be the first player to spend his entire career with the Carolina Panthers to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Drew Brees

Former NFL quarterback who will be inducted into the Hall of Fame alongside Kuechly in 2026.

Roger Craig

Former NFL running back who will be inducted into the Hall of Fame alongside Kuechly in 2026.

Larry Fitzgerald

Former NFL wide receiver who will be inducted into the Hall of Fame alongside Kuechly in 2026.

Adam Vinatieri

Former NFL kicker who will be inducted into the Hall of Fame alongside Kuechly in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Both of these teams are eager to come to Canton to open their season and to celebrate members of the Class of 2026 who meant so much to their organizations.”

— Jim Porter, President & CEO of the Hall of Fame

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.