The PGA Tour returns to Florida for the 2026 Cognizant Classic, which kicks off on Thursday at the Champion Course at PGA National Resort. Brooks Koepka headlines a competitive field that includes major champions like Shane Lowry and Gary Woodland. According to the latest odds, Lowry and Ryan Gerard are co-favorites at +1600 (bet $100 to win $1,600), followed by Nicolai Højgaard (+1900) and Rasmus Højgaard (+2200). Koepka is given +3300 to win and a +195 chance to finish in the top 20.

Lowry finished T-4 in this tournament last year, making him a strong candidate for a top 10 finish at +194 odds, based on analysis by Eric Cohen who provides expert insights and picks for this PGA Tour event.

Outrights:

• Nicolai Højgaard (+2150)

  • On a stellar run this season: T4 (Dubai), T22 (Farmers), T3 (WMPO)
  • Leads in ball striking over the last nine months
  • Appeals in this weak field due to his all-around game
  • Finished T18 at this event last year with solid gains

• Haotong Li (+4700)

  • Remarkable off the tee: gained in 21 of his last 22 outings since May 2025
  • Contributed significant strokes on approach in recent events

• Mac Meissner (+5000)

  • The last two winners here missed the cut the previous year
  • Performance improved with recent cuts made

Top Finishing Positions:

• Shane Lowry Top-5 (+380), Top-10 (+194)

  • Consistent top finishes at this venue with excellent statistics.

• Doug Ghim Top-10 (+510), Top-20 (+235)

  • Strong stats off the tee with a respectable recent track record.

• Kristoffer Reitan Top-20 (+186)

  • Solid performance metrics in previous tournaments, showcasing strong putting skills.

Longshot Parlay: 0.1 units

• Top-10 Parlay: Shane Lowry, Nicolai Højgaard (PGA), Branden Grace, Dean Burmester (DPWT) (+7864).

One and Done:

• Nicolai Højgaard

Want more insights? Check out Eric Cohen’s full leaderboard projection for the 2026 Cognizant Classic, featuring under-the-radar longshots with significant potential.