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Saints Not Selected To Play In The Hall Of Fame Game

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Jul 31, 2025; Canton, Ohio, USA; General view of the logo at mid-field at the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium site of the Professional Football Hall of Fame game and Class of 2025 induction ceremonies. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images | Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

It had been speculated since Drew Brees was announced as a member of the 2026 class of the Pro Football Hall of Fame that the New Orleans Saints could play in the Hall of Fame game in Canton. Unfortunately, that will not be the case, as it was just announced that the Arizona Cardinals and Carolina Panthers will be playing on Thursday, August 6, at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium.

It’s official! The Arizona Cardinals @AZCardinals and Carolina Panthers @panthers will open the 2026 @NFL season in Canton in the Hall of Fame Game presented by @Novartis. Tickets go on sale Monday, March 9, at noon. https://t.co/zEipy04fj5pic.twitter.com/BoDhLEUZWe

— Pro Football Hall of Fame (@ProFootballHOF) March 4, 2026

The Saints last played in the Hall of Fame Game back in 2012, losing to the Arizona Cardinals 17-10. This would have marked their 6th appearance in the game had they been selected to play.

Even though the Black and Gold will not be playing, plenty of Saints fans are expected to be headed to Canton to see Drew Brees get enshrined on Saturday, August 8, 2026.