The 2026 NFL preseason officially kicks off with the annual Pro Football Hall of Fame Game, featuring the Carolina Panthers and Arizona Cardinals. The exhibition matchup takes place in Canton, Ohio, as football fans get their first look at both teams ahead of the 2026 regular season.
Whether you’re eager to see rookies make their NFL debut or simply ready for the return of football, here’s everything you need to know about how to watch the game live.
Where to Watch Panthers vs. Cardinals
Fans can watch the 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame Game live on NBC. The game will also be available to stream on Peacock, allowing viewers to watch on compatible mobile devices, smart TVs, tablets, and streaming platforms.
2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame Game Details
- Game: Carolina Panthers vs. Arizona Cardinals
- Event: 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame Game
- Date: Thursday, August 6, 2026
- Time: 8:00 p.m. ET
- Location: Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium
- City: Canton, Ohio
- TV Channel: NBC
- Live Stream: Peacock
What Is the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game?
The Pro Football Hall of Fame Game is an annual preseason tradition that opens the NFL preseason. Played in Canton, Ohio, home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the game coincides with Hall of Fame Enshrinement Week festivities.
Although the outcome does not count toward the regular-season standings, the game gives coaches an opportunity to evaluate rookies, free-agent additions, and players competing for roster spots before the start of the 2026 NFL season.
Panthers and Cardinals Begin Their Preseason
The matchup provides an early glimpse at both franchises as they begin preparations for the upcoming season. Fans can expect extended playing time for younger players and newcomers, while many established veterans may see limited action or be held out entirely.
For football fans eager to watch live action return, the Hall of Fame Game marks the unofficial start of another NFL season.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame Game between the Carolina Panthers and Arizona Cardinals will be played on Thursday, August 6, at 8:00 p.m. ET from Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio. Fans can watch the game live on NBC or stream it on Peacock as the NFL preseason gets underway.