Cardinals face Panthers in Hall of Fame Game honoring Fitzgerald

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 7, 2026, 12:47 AM

Last updated Aug 7, 2026

Cardinals face Panthers in Hall of Fame Game honoring Fitzgerald
Summary

The Arizona Cardinals are set to play the Carolina Panthers in the Hall of Fame Game on August 6, 2026. This matchup celebrates Larry Fitzgerald's induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The game referee, Craig Wrolstad, was involved in a significant moment in Cardinals history, making a controversial call in 2003 that influenced the team's future by drafting Fitzgerald. Wrolstad's officiating experience includes Super Bowl LII, and he now has a special connection to this game.

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By the Numbers
  • Game kicks off at 5:00 p.m. MST on NBC.
  • Matchup features mostly second and third-string players.
  • Third-round rookie Carson Beck expected to start for Cardinals.
  • Larry Fitzgerald's induction celebrated during the game.
  • Craig Wrolstad officiates after significant call in 2003.
Latest Updates
  • 12:47 AMYahoo SportsCardinals Have Special Reason to Thank NFL Referee Officiating Hall of Fame Game
What they're saying
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The Arizona Cardinals will take on the Carolina Panthers in the Hall of Fame Game. The game marks the celebration of Larry Fitzgerald’s Hall of Fame induction.But the game also serves as a full-circle moment for the game’s assigned referee. Craig Wrolstad was the field judge who made the famous forceout call on Nate Poole’s […] The post Cardinals Have Special Reason to Thank NFL Referee Officiating Hall of Fame Game appeared first on HEAVY.

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