Cognizant Classic: Who's Playing and Who's Missing? (2026)

Get ready for some golf drama! The upcoming Cognizant Classic, a 121-player tournament, is missing some big names, and it's got everyone talking.

Defending champion Joe Highsmith is back, but the spotlight is on the notable absences. World No. 2 Rory McIlroy, along with Scottie Scheffler and others, are skipping this event, choosing to prepare for the Masters instead. It's a bold move that has sparked debate among golf enthusiasts.

But here's where it gets interesting: with the top-5 ranked players absent, the door is wide open for an unexpected champion. World No. 11 Ben Griffin leads the pack, joined by the likes of Max Homa and Tom Kim. And don't forget about Sepp Straka, who's been on a roll lately.

The most intriguing part? Brooks Koepka's return to the PGA Tour after his LIV Golf stint. Koepka, known for his controversial moves, will be under the microscope as he aims to make his mark again.

So, who will emerge victorious in this star-studded absence? Will Griffin or Homa claim the title, or will an underdog surprise us all? And what impact will Koepka's presence have on the tournament dynamics?

These questions and more will be answered as the Cognizant Classic unfolds. Stay tuned for the action-packed Florida Swing, starting next week at PGA National in The Palm Beaches.

Remember, in golf, anything can happen, and this tournament promises an exciting ride. Will you be tuning in to witness the unexpected?

Cognizant Classic: Who's Playing and Who's Missing? (2026)

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