Watch Cardinals execute season’s first TD in HOF game vs. Panthers

It is only the preseason, but the new NFL campaign starts to feel like a reality when the Hall of Fame Game commences in August. That feeling of excitement intensifies when there is an actual touchdown. Arizona Cardinals running back Corey Kiner became the first player to find the end zone in almost six months, which means one thing. Football has returned!

The second-year undrafted talent out of LSU and Cincinnati scored on a one-yard inside run early in the second quarter during Thursday’s matchup versus the Carolina Panthers. It took a little while for the action to get going, but after Kiner put six on the board, the offense started flowing for both squads.

The FIRST touchdown of the season @AZCardinals@ProFootballHOF Game on NBC
Stream on @NFLPlus + Peacock pic.twitter.com/vZAR59QYRN

— NFL (@NFL) August 7, 2026

Arizona rookie quarterback Carson Beck converted 15-of-19 pass attempts for 188 yards and one touchdown, wide receiver Jalen Brooks totaled three receptions for 99 yards and Rb Bam Knight logged 12 carries for 60 yards. ACC Player of the Year Haynes King linked up with fellow undrafted player Ja’seem Reed for a 15-yard score, and AJ Dillon recorded a one-yard rushing TD of his own. The score was tied at 17 going into halftime.

The Cardinals and Panthers can certainly benefit by being the two franchises to get this preseason head start. Neither team is considered a contender, so player development will be crucial to their summer preparations. The Hall of Fame Game allows them to see where they stand early in training camp.

Now that the NFL has fired its opening salvo in Canton, Ohio, the next three weeks should fly by for football fans.

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