How former Kentucky Wildcats performed in 2026 NFL Hall of Fame game

The Kentucky Wildcats, despite what many people believe about their football program, have actually produced some very quality NFL talents over the past decade. Given the way first-year head coach Will Stein is recruiting, that pipeline of talent should only continue to strengthen. Jacksonville Jaguars EDGE Josh Allen is arguably the most notable name, and he’s become one of the best rushers in the league.

With preseason having kicked off, it’s almost time for football to be a mainstay for most of the week again, which will undoubtedly have many excited. The NFL Hall of Fame game recently showcased the Carolina Panthers and Arizona Cardinals this past Thursday in a thrilling battle.

For the Cats, they had two former talents on the Panthers, Luke Fortner and Trevin Wallace. Fortner plays center and was a free agent addition. There isn’t much known about how he performed, but Wallace was a staple for the Panthers defense. Unfortunately, he didn’t have a great showing.

Post HOF Game Stock Up/Down:

Haynes King 📈
Jimmy Horn 📈
Miles Davis 📈
Elijah Garcia 📈
Thomas Incoom 📈

Trevin Wallace 📉
Every CB that played 📉
Claudin Cherlus 📉
David Moore 📉
Anthony Tyus III 📉

— Panthers Pulse (@PanthersPulze) August 7, 2026

The Cardinals offense, led by Kedon Slovis and Carson Beck, tallied double figures in two of four quarters. They sliced up the Panthers defense, which has Wallace in the middle of it often. Wallace ended with three tackles (two solo), and that’s it. He didn’t have a sack or interception either and also struggled heavily in coverage.

Fortner is expected to be the opening-game starter at center for the Panthers, and he was brought in to be a wall in the middle. Fortner was selected 65th overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, having played three seasons with Jacksonville and one with New Orleans. He should be a staple for the Panthers, but Wallace will need to make some improvements to stay on the field consistently in 2026.

This article originally appeared on UK Wildcats Wire: How former Kentucky Wildcats performed in 2026 NFL Hall of Fame game