The landscape of the 2026 Cognizant Classic has shifted dramatically following a series of withdrawals Monday, elevating Shane Lowry and Ryan Gerard to co-favorite status.

Genesis Invitational champion Jacob Bridgeman, along with Ben Griffin and Adam Scott, were among those who withdrew from the PGA Tour’s first event of the Florida swing. This reshuffling occurred despite the tournament already lacking the participation of the world’s top 10 players.

Lowry boasts a strong track record at the Cognizant Classic, having finished no worse than T-11 in his last four appearances. Gerard too has a history of success at PGA National, finishing fourth in 2023 and tying for 25th last year.

Current Cognizant Classic Odds

(As of Monday afternoon)

• Shane Lowry (+1950)
• Ryan Gerard (+1950)
• Rasmus Hojgaard (+2200)
• Nicolai Hojgaard (+2400)
• Michael Thorbjornsen (+2600)
• Keith Mitchell (+2600)
• Brooks Koepka (+2800)
• Daniel Berger (+3300)
• Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen (+3400)
• Davis Thompson (+3400)
• Thorbjorn Olesen (+3600)
• Aaron Rai (+3700)
• Will Zalatoris (+3800)
• Christiaan Bezuidenhout (+4000)
• Alex Smalley (+4000)

Players to Watch

The Højgaard twins, Rasmus and Nicolai, are also considered strong contenders, aiming to secure their first PGA TOUR victories at the Champion Course. The course has a history of crowning first-time winners, with five of the last seven champions achieving their breakthrough at this event.

“Ryan Gerard is understandably the favorite this week. He finished fourth in 2023 and 25th last year, and already has 2 runner-up finishes this season.”

theleafchronicle.com

The Champion Course at PGA National presents a unique challenge, playing at 7,223 yards and featuring numerous water hazards. The famed “Bear Trap” (holes 15-17) is expected to be a pivotal stretch for players.

FAQ

Who are the favorites to win the Cognizant Classic?

As of February 24, 2026, Shane Lowry and Ryan Gerard are the co-favorites at +1950.

What is the par and yardage of the Champion Course at PGA National?

The course is a par 71 and plays at 7,223 yards.

What makes the Champion Course challenging?

The course features numerous water hazards and the challenging “Bear Trap” on holes 15-17.