The pace is quickening on the PGA Tour as we gear up for the ninth showdown of the season, the much-anticipated Cognizant Classic. This high-stakes event is slated to take place at the PGA National Members Club, from February 27 to March 2. Fans yearning for a powerhouse lineup won’t be disappointed; despite the absence of luminaries like Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy, the roster is teeming with talent. In fact, the tournament boasts the participation of 16 out of the top 50 global players.
In this grueling 72-hole stroke play, the cut comes after 36 holes. The players will be vying for a staggering $9.2 million purse, with the champion pocketing a cool $1.62 million and a crucial 500 FedEx Cup points. However, the absence of any Top 10 ranked players raises the question: Does this vacant spot make the victory path smoother for the hopefuls, or does it merely add to the unpredictability of the competition?
Take a moment to consider the formidable 7,125-yard PGA National course. It’s not for the faint-hearted. One needs a blend of skill, strategy, and stamina to emerge victorious. So, who’s your pick for this year’s trophy?
Top of the list is Sepp Straka. Despite his less-than-stellar performance at the Genesis Invitational, Straka is a force to be reckoned with. The victor of the 2025 American Express, Straka has been delivering consistently strong performances this season. His track record boasts two Top 10 finishes and four Top 25s. With three PGA Tour wins to his name, Straka is eyeing the Cognizant Classic trophy. He started off strong this season, and if he can replicate the magic from the American Express at the PGA National, a triumphant outcome is plausible.
Charley Hoffman, despite his tumble at the Mexico Championship, is ready to bounce back at the Cognizant Classic. Hoffman, who last tasted victory in 2007, is eager to break his winless streak. His steady performance at the American Express and consistent showings at the Farmers Insurance Open and Sony Open affirm his readiness for the upcoming challenge. But he’ll need to step up his game to clinch that long-awaited victory.
The vibrant Rickie Fowler is another contender. Despite a dry season last year, Fowler, a six-time PGA Tour winner, is familiar with the Cognizant Classic course. This familiarity might just give him the edge he needs. If he can rediscover his rhythm, expect him to be a strong contender on the final day.
Austin Eckroat, the defending champion, is also in the fray. The first player since Jack Nicklaus to win back-to-back titles at this event, Eckroat would be looking to repeat the feat. He has tasted victory twice but has been inconsistent this season. A strong performance at the Sentry and the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am could, however, give him the confidence he needs to defend his title.
Lastly, Jordan Spieth, whose comeback trail has been a bit rocky, is relentless in his pursuit of success. After a long, three-year winless stretch, Spieth is more determined than ever to reclaim his top spot.
As we count down to the 2025 Cognizant Classic, all eyes are on these five promising contenders. Who do you think will lift the trophy? Share your thoughts with us!