CANTON, Ohio — The NFL preseason kicked off with instant drama as undrafted rookie quarterback Haynes King delivered a unforgettable moment in the annual Hall of Fame Game. King scrambled 5 yards into the end zone as time expired, capping off a clutch 13-play, 65-yard drive to lift the Carolina Panthers to a thrilling 33-30 comeback victory over the Arizona Cardinals
A Night to Remember for the Rookie
With both teams resting their starting lineups, the spotlight shifted to the depth charts, and King seized the moment in style.
- The Stat Line: The former Georgia Tech star and ACC Player of the Year completed 21-of-34 passes for 180 yards and two touchdowns, while adding 39 rushing yards and the game-winning score on the ground.
- The Climax: Trailing late after Arizona’s Kedon Slovis connected with Bryson Green for a 1-yard score with 1:55 remaining, King engineered a flawless two-minute drill. His decisive 26-yard run on third-and-14 kept the chains moving before his dramatic walk-off scramble sealed the win.
Preseason Highlights & Standouts
- Panthers Offense: Before King took over under center, veteran Kenny Pickett saw action (8-of-11, 62 yards), while regular starter Bryce Young cheered enthusiastically from the sidelines. King tossed scoring strikes to Ja’seem Reed and Anthony Tyus III earlier in the game.
- Cardinals Debuts: Arizona featured impressive performances from their own backup quarterbacks. Miami product Carson Beck shined in his debut, completing 15-of-19 passes for 188 yards and a touchdown, while Kedon Slovis added efficient passing down the stretch.
While it’s only August, King’s stellar performance and composure under pressure made major waves in Canton, putting the NFL on notice and giving the Panthers coaching staff plenty to think about as roster cuts approach.
Omer Faruk
Omer Faruk is a contemporary writer, journalist, and media professional. Active in the field of digital and print journalism, he has contributed to prominent media outlets and national daily newspapers in Bangladesh, focusing on grassroots reporting, public issues, and social development.
In addition to his journalism career, he is actively involved with literary and social organizations, holding leadership roles focused on community engagement, media freedom, and cultural development. His work reflects a deep commitment to truthful storytelling, public awareness, and highlighting underrepresented voices.
