Cognizant Classic 2026 Betting Preview: Johnny’s Winning Picks for PGA National

by | Feb 25, 2026 | Blog, Carolinas, Dallas, From The Rough, Ohio, Tampa Bay

The PGA Tour leaves the California coastline behind and heads to Palm Beach Gardens for the 2026 Cognizant Classic, where birdies have recently replaced survival mode at PGA National.

Yes, the Bear Trap still lurks. But after recent winning scores of 19-under and 17-under, this par-71, 7,223-yard layout is no longer the annual grind it once was. With a $9.6 million purse on the line, expect aggressive play and a leaderboard packed with both proven stars and hungry newcomers.

Shane Lowry enters at 14-1 and continues to knock on the door in the United States. The Irishman has stacked strong finishes at PGA National in recent years and remains one of the most consistent ball-strikers on Tour. If the putter cooperates, he’s dangerous.

The Højgaard twins — Nicolai (22-1) and Rasmus (22-1) — bring serious firepower. Nicolai’s length and confidence in windy conditions make him a strong fit, while Rasmus continues to trend upward against elite fields.

Michael Thorbjornsen (22-1) flashed closing potential at TPC Scottsdale earlier this season before settling for a podium. The talent is obvious. Now it’s about finishing.

Brooks Koepka (30-1) returns to his home-state comfort zone. The five-time major champion has gained strokes tee-to-green but struggled on the greens. A switch back to Bermuda could flip that script quickly.

Also worth a look: Aaron Rai (33-1), whose precision game fits this track, and Keith Mitchell (27-1), who owns great memories here.

For official plays, don’t miss Johnny’s Winning Picks, powered by OrionGolf.com and highlighted by Nicolai Højgaard (20-1), Michael Thorbjornsen (22-1), Aaron Rai (40-1) and longshot Eric Cole (85-1). Top 10 targets include Daniel Berger (+325) and Andrew Putnam (+1000).

Florida golf is here. Time to attack.

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