Which team won the 2026 NFL Hall of Fame Game against the Arizona Cardinals?

The Carolina Panthers won the 2026 NFL Hall of Fame Game against the Arizona Cardinals.

The exhibition was played in Canton, Ohio, as the traditional preseason opener connected with the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Carolina defeated Arizona 33–30 in a high-scoring contest that began the 2026 NFL preseason.

The game was significant for both clubs because it provided an early opportunity for young players and roster hopefuls to play in a nationally recognized matchup. The Hall of Fame Game is separate from the three regular preseason weeks, so its result is usually listed independently in schedules and season summaries.

A common mix-up is confusing the Hall of Fame Game winner with the team that completed the preseason with the best record. The Panthers won the Canton opener, but preseason standings are separate from regular-season standings and do not affect playoff qualification.