Carson Beck didn’t waste much time making noise in his first NFL action.
The Arizona Cardinals gave the former Georgia and Miami quarterback the start in Thursday’s Hall of Fame Game against the Carolina Panthers, and Beck came out firing in the first half. His first NFL touchdown pass arrived in the second quarter and pushed Arizona ahead 14-7 after the extra point.
That score capped a strong opening stretch for Beck, who looked sharp throughout his preseason debut. He hit 10 of his first 12 throws for 134 yards and the touchdown, giving the Cardinals an early boost in a game that had social media buzzing almost immediately.
One of the first big moments came on a deep connection to Jalen Brooks for a 49-yard gain, and the play sparked plenty of reaction online. Beck later helped guide a 98-yard touchdown drive, adding to the early hype around his debut.
Here’s a small sample of what was being said on X, formerly Twitter:
Look at Carson Beck, man!!
- Jon Gruden (@BarstoolGruden) August 7, 2026
Oh my! Carson Beck just dropped a dime to Jalen Brooks for a 49-yard gain, and Brooks got POPPED but still held on to the ball.
Football!!
- Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) August 7, 2026
Carson Beck is SLINGING IT 🤯
- Outta Pocket with RGIII (@OuttaPocketRG3) August 7, 2026
Carson Beck just led a 98 yard touchdown drive with some really nice passes. I’m sold! pic.twitter.com/SlLysEBDnp
- Will Manso (@WillManso) August 7, 2026
The Hall of Fame Game aired on NBC.
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