Panthers QB3 Haynes King shines during NFL debut

Carolina Panthers rookie quarterback Haynes King entered his NFL debut with two goals:

• Prove he can compete at the highest level.
• Stand on the same field and meet Luke Kuechly.

King checked both boxes, scoring the game-winning touchdown on a 5-yard run as time expired, sealing a 33-30 win over the Arizona Cardinals during Thursday night's Pro Football Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio.

King guided the Panthers on a 13-play, 65-yard drive over the final 1:55. He also executed a 26-yard run on a third-and-14 play to help set up his final-play herorics at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium.

"Well, that was a lot of fun," Panthers coach Dave Canales said, opening his post-game press conference. "The players were real resiliant."

As an undrafted free agent, King anticipated making his first professional appearance in the preseason opener. He understood the significance of the opportunity.   

"I haven't played at this level yet, just to go out there and showcase my ability," he said.

After going 21 of 34 for 180 yards and two touchdown passes, the 2025 ACC Offensive Player of the Year checked that box, as well.

Panthers rookie QB Haynes King proving NFL ability

A coach's son, King often slept in the locker room during fall camp of his senior year at Georgia Tech. He wanted to focus on football.

The work ethic started to pay off Thursday.

On a third-and-15 play with 2:57 remaining in the third quarter, King dropped back and stood in a clean pocket and delivered a touch pass over the Cardinals' rookie Harrison Wallace III. Jimmy Horn Jr. reached up and hauled in the first-down throw.

"Wow," NBC Sports broadcaster Cris Collinsworth said.  

King took over for starter Kenny Pickett at the start of the fourth series and immediately guided the Panthers to a touchdown and field goal, securing a 17-17 halftime tie.

MORE: Cardinals vs. Panthers live score, updates, highlights from NFL's Hall of Fame Game 2026

King delivered a 4-yard toss to Anthony Tyus III, who rebounded from a third-quarter fumble. His second touchdown pass lifted the Panthers to a 24-20 lead at 14:20 of the third quarter.

King did not enjoy a perfect performance, however.

Near the end of the first half, Horn ran uncovered, but King delivered a high-and-wide fastball, which the second-year receiver could not handle.

With so many first-game goals checked off, King could focus on finally getting to know Kuechly before he's officially enshrined.

"I have not met him yet," King said. "His name and pictures are everywhere."

Will the Panthers' organization find a place in the Bank of America Stadium hallways for the photo of King diving over the goal-line Thursday?

More NFL news:

• OC Brad Idzik preps for Panthers' primary playcalling position
• UDFA QB Haynes King aims to perfect plays anywhere, takes work to Panthers' parking lot
• Ja'Tavion Sanders, Panthers' tight ends seek more production
• Panthers' Bryce Young buries defense during NFL training camp practice
• Newcomer Cam Gill in game-shape for first Panthers practice in pads