In a stunning display of determination, undrafted rookie quarterback Haynes King spearheaded the Carolina Panthers' comeback win against the Arizona Cardinals, culminating in a 33-30 victory in the Hall of Fame game that marked the beginning of the NFL preseason. King, the former Atlantic Coast Conference Player of the Year, delivered an impressive performance, completing 21 of 34 passes for 180 yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for 39 yards and scoring the winning touchdown. Panthers coach Dave Canales praised King's resilience and the team's ability to finish strong, attributes they consistently practice and preach. Meanwhile, Carson Beck made a notable debut for Arizona, and Kedon Slovis threw a crucial one-yard TD pass to Bryson Green, momentarily giving the Cardinals a 30-27 lead.
However, King rallied his team, with support from teammate Bryce Young, and secured the win with a series of clutch plays, including a four-yard TD pass to Anthony Tyus III and a 15-yard TD pass to Ja'seem Reed. King's impressive 26-yard run on third-and-14 kept the final drive alive, ultimately leading to the Panthers' victory. The game also saw Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett and All-Pro tight end Trey McBride visit the Pro Football Hall of Fame Museum to view their jerseys, which were displayed in recognition of their record-breaking achievements last season, including McBride's 126 receptions and Brissett's 47 completions in a single game.