The 2026 Cognizant Classic takes centre stage on the PGA Tour from February 26-March 1 at PGA National’s Champion Course in Florida, as the Florida Swing gets underway.
A demanding par‑70 layout with the infamous Bear Trap, PGA National promises another week where patience, precision and nerve under pressure are essential to contend.
A 144‑man field tackles one of the toughest non‑major tests of the year, with water in play on the majority of holes and swirling winds often pushing scores higher than a typical PGA Tour stop.
With several in‑form names and course horses in the line‑up, this year’s Cognizant Classic is set up perfectly for another dramatic Sunday on the Champion Course.
Current 2026 Cognizant Classic Betting Odds
| Player | Betting Odds |
|---|---|
| Ryan Gerard | 15/1 (+1500) |
| Shane Lowry | 17/1 (+1700) |
| Nicolai Hojgaard | 21/1 (+2100) |
| Rasmus Hojgaard | 21/1 (+2100) |
| Brooks Koepka | 26/1 (+2600) |
| Keith Mitchell | 26/1 (+2600) |
| Michael Thorbjornsen | 26/1 (+2600) |
Leading 2026 Cognizant Classic Contenders
Ryan Gerard
Ryan Gerard returns to PGA National with fond memories, having first turned heads here with a standout performance as a Monday qualifier that effectively jump‑started his PGA Tour career.
His game is built around clean ball‑striking and a confident putting stroke, both vital attributes on a course where bogeys lurk at every turn.
With far more experience under his belt now and comfort on this layout, Gerard looks primed to justify his position towards the top of the betting after a solid start to 2026.
Shane Lowry
Major champion Shane Lowry has an excellent record at PGA National and routinely features on Cognizant Classic leaderboards.
His ability to flight the ball in the wind and his superb short game make him one of the most reliable operators when conditions turn difficult.
Lowry’s patience and course management are tailor‑made for surviving the Bear Trap, and if he finds a touch more conversion with the putter, another title run in Florida is well within reach.
Nicolai Hojgaard
Nicolai Hojgaard brings explosive power and increasingly polished control into this week, with his high‑ceiling game perfectly suited to modern PGA Tour setups.
On a course like PGA National, his length can be a big advantage when paired with disciplined strategy and smart target selection.
If he keeps the big numbers off the card and leans on his improving wedge play, Nicolai has the firepower to separate himself from the pack.
Rasmus Hojgaard
Rasmus Hojgaard, like his twin brother, has already proven he can win against world‑class fields. His strength lies in a composed temperament and a repeatable, efficient swing that holds up well under pressure.
PGA National rewards players who can accept the occasional bogey, stay patient and bounce back quickly, and Rasmus’ mature on‑course attitude makes him a strong candidate to do exactly that across four grinding days.
Keith Mitchell
Former champion Keith Mitchell is a genuine course horse at PGA National, having showcased repeatedly how well his game fits this venue.
One of the best drivers of the ball when he is on song, Mitchell’s ability to combine distance with accuracy gives him a significant edge on a layout where positioning off the tee is critical.
With positive memories and proven success on these greens, he will be a popular pick to contend again in front of the Florida crowds.
Michael Thorbjornsen
Highly touted young star Michael Thorbjornsen continues his transition from standout amateur to full‑time PGA Tour presence.
Long off the tee and unafraid to take on aggressive lines, he has the kind of upside that can produce quick breakthroughs when the pieces fall into place.
If he manages the Bear Trap sensibly and avoids over‑pressing into the hazards that define PGA National, his talent alone could see him feature prominently on the leaderboard come Sunday.
James is an avid golfer and reviews golf equipment and new gear for GolfReviewsGuide.com as well as providing the latest golf news. You will find him on a golf course wherever possible.