11
Carson Beck Earns First NFL Start in Hall of Fame Showdown
Cardinals Rookie QB Carson Beck Set for Debut in Hall of Fame Game
What’s Happening?
Arizona Cardinals fans are about to get their first real look at rookie quarterback Carson Beck in actual game action. The team’s head coach, Mike LaFleur, announced on Tuesday that Beck will start Thursday night’s Hall of Fame Game against the Carolina Panthers.
Important Point: This is a preseason game (the Hall of Fame Game), which means it’s like a practice game before the real season starts. Stats don’t count for the regular season, but it’s the first time fans see rookies play against other NFL teams!
Who Are the Quarterbacks?
The Cardinals have four quarterbacks on their roster right now. Here’s the lineup:
- Carson Beck – Rookie (3rd round draft pick) – STARTING Thursday
- Jacoby Brissett – Veteran backup
- Gardner Minshew – Veteran backup
- Kedon Slovis – 4th string quarterback
Important Point: Since Beck is starting the game, it’s very unlikely Brissett or Minshew will play at all. They’re saving the veterans for the regular season!
Why Did Beck Get the Start?
Coach LaFleur didn’t hold a press conference Tuesday, but on Monday he explained his decision:
- Beck had his "best practice of camp" over the weekend
- The 2nd and 3rd string offenses have been operating at a "pretty high clip"
- They were practicing the exact plays they’ll run Thursday night
- This gives Beck a "good feel" for the game plan
Simple Translation: Beck practiced really well recently, and the coaches want to see how he handles real game speed against another team’s defense.
What Happens After Beck Plays?
The game plan for after Beck comes out is simple:
- Beck starts and plays the first portion (usually 1-2 quarters in preseason)
- Kedon Slovis (the 4th QB) will likely play the rest of the game
- Brissett and Minshew will probably watch from the sideline
Quick Facts at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Game | Hall of Fame Game (Preseason) |
| Opponent | Carolina Panthers |
| Date | Thursday night |
| Starting QB | Carson Beck (Rookie) |
| Backup Plan | Kedon Slovis plays after Beck |
| Veterans Playing? | Unlikely (Brissett & Minshew) |
Summary
The Arizona Cardinals are giving their rookie quarterback Carson Beck his NFL debut on Thursday night in the Hall of Fame Game against the Panthers. Head coach Mike LaFleur chose Beck because he had his best practice of training camp recently. The veteran quarterbacks (Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew) likely won’t play, while 4th-stringer Kedon Slovis will get the remaining snaps after Beck’s night is done. This is an exciting first look at the team’s 3rd-round draft pick in live action!
FAQ
What is the Hall of Fame Game?
A: It’s a special preseason game played in Canton, Ohio (where the Pro Football Hall of Fame is located). It kicks off the NFL preseason each year. Think of it like a scrimmage that counts for TV but not for the standings.
Who is Carson Beck?
A: He’s a rookie quarterback the Cardinals picked in the 3rd round of the 2024 NFL Draft. He played college football at Georgia and Miami. This is his first ever NFL game action.
Why aren’t the veteran QBs playing?
A: In preseason games, teams often rest their established veterans to avoid injury and give young players experience. Brissett and Minshew already know the offense—they don’t need practice reps like a rookie does.
How long will Beck play?
A: Usually in the Hall of Fame Game, starters play 1-2 quarters (about half the game). The exact plan wasn’t announced, but don’t expect him to play the whole game.
Does this game count for the regular season?
A: No! Preseason games are exhibition only. The wins/losses don’t matter for playoff standings. But the performance matters for roster spots and confidence!
