Haynes King Makes NFL Debut With Game Winning Touchdown for Carolina Panthers
Haynes King made a memorable start to his NFL career after helping the Carolina Panthers defeat the Arizona Cardinals 33 to 30 in the 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame Game.
The game was played on August 6 2026 in Canton Ohio and went down to the final play. Haynes King became the main story of the night after scoring the winning touchdown for the Panthers.
Haynes King Gets His Opportunity
Haynes King entered the game after Kenny Pickett and quickly showed his ability as a young quarterback.
He looked confident when passing the football and also used his speed to make important plays on the ground. His performance showed why the Carolina Panthers gave him an opportunity after the 2026 NFL Draft.
King finished the game with 21 completions on 34 passing attempts for 180 yards and two passing touchdowns. He also rushed for 39 yards.
Haynes King Scores the Game Winning Touchdown
The biggest moment of the game came during the final Panthers drive.
Carolina put together a 13 play 65 yard drive and needed a touchdown to win the game. Haynes King helped move the offense down the field before taking control on the final play.
King ran five yards into the end zone as time expired.
The touchdown gave the Carolina Panthers a 33 to 30 victory over the Arizona Cardinals.
It was the perfect way for Haynes King to introduce himself to NFL fans.
Strong Performance From Haynes King
Haynes King showed that he can make plays both through the air and on the ground.
His two passing touchdowns showed his ability as a passer, while his 39 rushing yards showed the mobility that made him a dangerous quarterback during his college career.
His final rushing touchdown was the most important play of the night.
Haynes King and the Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers already have several quarterbacks competing for opportunities, including Bryce Young and Kenny Pickett.
That makes every preseason game important for players like Haynes King.
King's performance against the Arizona Cardinals gives the Panthers coaching staff another reason to watch his development closely.
Haynes King College Career
Before joining the NFL, Haynes King played college football at Georgia Tech.
He became known for his ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs. His athletic ability made him an interesting quarterback prospect.
King's style can be especially useful in the modern NFL because quarterbacks who can run can create extra opportunities for their offense.
What Comes Next for Haynes King
The Hall of Fame Game was only one preseason game, so it is too early to know what role Haynes King will have during the regular season.
However, his performance has already created attention around the young quarterback.
The Carolina Panthers will continue evaluating their quarterbacks during the rest of the preseason. King will have more opportunities to show his passing ability, decision making and rushing skills.
Why Haynes King's Performance Matters
A preseason game does not decide a player's entire NFL career, but big moments can give young players confidence.
Haynes King's game winning touchdown was exactly the type of moment that can help a young quarterback build momentum.
He did not simply complete passes during the game. He helped lead the Panthers on their final drive and finished the game himself.
Haynes King Latest News
Haynes King is now one of the young Carolina Panthers players attracting attention after the 2026 Hall of Fame Game.
His NFL debut included 180 passing yards, two passing touchdowns, 39 rushing yards and the game winning rushing touchdown.
The Panthers will now look to see if King can continue building on this performance during the rest of the preseason.
For Haynes King, the journey is only beginning.
His first NFL game ended with a dramatic touchdown and a Panthers victory. Now fans will be watching closely to see what the young quarterback does next.