Rookie quarterback Carson Beck showcased his skills during his debut game for the Arizona Cardinals in the preseason Hall of Fame Game. Beck was chosen as the starting quarterback and played throughout the first half.
He led the Cardinals on an impressive 96-yard touchdown drive. After the game, Beck expressed his excitement about returning to play. ‘From the moment I stepped on the field, I was ready to go,’ Beck stated. ‘Last night, I couldn’t sleep, thinking about the chance to play football again. I never take it for granted.’
Reflecting on his past injury and surgery, Beck shared his gratitude for the game. ‘Since my UCL repair, I have found faith in the opportunities I get,’ he said.
Carson Beck, who previously played at Georgia before transferring to Miami for his final collegiate season, had a successful college career, leading the Hurricanes to the College Football Playoff National Championship. In his first preseason game, the Cardinals’ third-round draft pick completed 14 of 19 passes, accumulating 188 yards and a touchdown on that 96-yard drive. He was sacked once and achieved a 125.4 passer rating.
At halftime, the score was tied 17-17 between the Cardinals and the Panthers. The third quarter saw a 3-0 score in favor of the Cardinals, but the teams exchanged scores in the fourth. Ultimately, the Panthers clinched a 33-30 victory with undrafted rookie quarterback Haynes King rushing for a decisive touchdown.
Despite the loss, Beck’s performance suggested he might become a starter during the season. Head coach Mike LaFleur expressed confidence in Beck’s future, stating he was ‘not surprised’ by Beck’s strong showing. ‘I’m proud of his play, and it’s an excellent first step,’ LaFleur told reporters.
Beck is currently third on the depth chart behind Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew II. His potential to start in future games was hinted at by LaFleur’s vote of confidence.
The Cardinals’ upcoming preseason games include matchups against the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday, Aug. 13, and the Dallas Cowboys on Aug. 22. The preseason concludes with a game against the Green Bay Packers on Aug. 28. The regular season begins on Sunday, Sept. 13, with a game against the Los Angeles Chargers.