The FedEx Cup Playoffs have shown a range in predictability over the years, with the upcoming 2025 edition expected to be particularly unpredictable. Following a recent announcement by the PGA Tour in May regarding a revamped Tour Championship format that levels the playing field for all 30 golfers in the postseason final, advancement to East Lake Golf Club now presents a legitimate opportunity to claim the top prize.
Recent champions include Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Viktor Hovland, all of whom are anticipated to play significant roles this postseason. With the added unpredictability designed into the Tour Championship and no starting strokes for players, it opens avenues for outsiders who can challenge for the coveted silver cup.
As many as 12 rounds of golf stand between players and their offseasons, beginning with the top 70 on the PGA Tour competing at the St. Jude Championship. The field will then be reduced to 50 at the BMW Championship, and ultimately 30 for the Tour Championship.
Predictions for the 2025 FedEx Cup Playoffs
Odds via DraftKings Sportsbook
Pick to win FedEx Cup – Russell Henley (22-1): Henley is currently in the top five of the season-long race and is guaranteed a spot at the Tour Championship. Last season, he finished third at East Lake and is arriving in peak form, showcasing reliability in major events.
Sleeper to win FedEx Cup – Aaron Rai (200-1): More work is required for Rai, who starts outside the top-50 bubble. However, a solid start at TPC Southwind could propel him through August. Recently, he finished strong at the Wyndham Championship.
Most likely to disappoint – Ben Griffin (No. 6): After some challenges, Griffin’s form has dipped, coupled with unfamiliarity with upcoming courses.
Player with the most at stake – Jordan Spieth (No. 48): Facing scrutiny in 2025 for accepting invitations to signature events, Spieth has a chance to solidify his schedule for 2026 by maintaining his spot in the top 50, which could behold great significance for him post-wrist surgery recovery.
Robby Kalland, golf writer
Pick to win FedEx Cup – Scottie Scheffler (12/5): Scheffler is expected to dominate again, having previously excelled without starting strokes at East Lake last year.
Sleeper to win FedEx Cup – Wyndham Clark (190-1): Despite challenges, Clark has shown great resilience, and there’s a viable pathway for him to break into the top 30 and possibly thrive at East Lake.
Most likely to disappoint – Keegan Bradley (No. 10): Bradley has struggled in previous playoff events, and without a strong start, his captaincy decisions may become increasingly complex.
Player with the most on the line – Collin Morikawa (No. 19): Morikawa’s season has waned, putting his future on the Ryder Cup team in jeopardy, reinforcing the urgency for improved performance in the playoffs.
