⛳ Cognizant Classic Round 2 Picks & Predictions: Austin Smotherman Leads the Field at -9
Cognizant Classic Round 2 picks and predictions are ready, coming into what promises to be a dynamic day at PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. This makes it an ideal spot for golf bettors. With the tournament entering the second round, and this tournament being a birdie fest, plenty of value still on the board for almost all markets.
Second-round props offer value if you’ve been tracking how the first day has played out. The weather will be a factor, as storms are likely to impact the afternoon group. The field will be ready with Austin Smotherman in the lead at -9.
Let’s break down the best value plays heading into Friday's action that tee's off at 6:45 a.m. ET.
⛳ Cognizant Classic Round 2 leaderboard & odds
Here is Cognizant Classic leaderboard heading into Round 2 at PGA National Resort; outright odds via FanDuel.
| Position | Golfer | Score (to par) | Odds to win |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Austin Smotherman | -9 | +490 |
| 2 | Nico Echavarria | -8 | +400 |
| T-3 | Taylor Moore | -4 | +3500 |
| T-3 | Jackson Suber | -4 | +4500 |
| T-3 | Kevin Roy | -4 | +3000 |
| T-3 | Daniel Berger | -4 | +1300 |
| T-3 | Kristoffer Reitan | -4 | +1700 |
| T-3 | Pontus Nyholm | -4 | +12500 |
| T-9 | Beau Hossler | -3 | +6500 |
| T-9 | Hank Lebioda | -3 | +15000 |
| T-9 | Joel Dahmen | -3 | +5500 |
| T-9 | Max McGreevy | -3 | +2700 |
| T-9 | Aaron Rai | -3 | +2700 |
| T-9 | Kevin Yu | -3 | +4500 |
| T-9 | Keith Mitchell | -3 | +2200 |
| T-9 | Chad Ramey | -3 | +7000 |
| T-9 | Sudarshan Yellamaraju | -3 | +8000 |
| T-9 | Michael Brennan | -3 | +3000 |
| T-9 | William Mouw | -3 | +8000 |
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🏆 Who'll win the Cognizant Classic?
Here are my golf picks for Round 2 of the Cognizant Classic on Friday:
Nico Echavarria (+450)
At -8 and just one shot behind leader Austin Smotherman, Nico Echavarria is in a perfect position to win the Cognizant Classic. Echavarria has been dialed in tee-to-green, gaining strokes with his irons and giving himself consistent birdie opportunities.
His controlled ball flight and comfort in windy Florida conditions should continue to pay dividends over the weekend. Being one shot back keeps him aggressive without forcing the issue. If his putter stays warm, he has the scoring ability to overtake Smotherman and close out a statement victory.
💰 Best Round 2 props for the Cognizant Classic
Michael Brennan: Top-20 finish (+120)
Michael Brennan is in an excellent position to secure a Top-20 finish at the Cognizant Classic, sitting T-9 at -3 heading into Round 2. Brennan’s opening round showcased exactly what you want for sustained success at PGA National: steady ball-striking, smart course management, and an ability to avoid big numbers on a notoriously punishing layout.
His tee-to-green consistency has allowed him to stay aggressive when opportunities arise while limiting damage when conditions toughen. With plenty of scoring holes balanced by demanding water-lined tests, patience is critical, and Brennan has shown he can pick his spots effectively. Even a modest round around par on Friday would keep him firmly inside the Top-20 mix. Given his current positioning, form, and suitability for this course, Brennan is well-equipped to maintain his standing and finish the week comfortably inside the Top-20.
Kristoffer Reitan: Top European (+400)
Kristoffer Reitan is in prime position to finish the Cognizant Open as the top European, currently sitting T-3 at -4. Reitan has shown excellent control off the tee and a confident approach game, which is crucial on a demanding layout that punishes loose swings. His ability to stay patient while capitalizing on scoring chances gives him a slight edge over the rest of the European contingent.
His biggest challengers include Rasmus Højgaard, Aaron Rai, and Shane Lowry, with Rai sitting closest at -3. Still, Reitan holds the advantage both on the leaderboard and in momentum. If he continues gaining strokes with his irons and maintains steady putting, he can separate himself. With a one-shot cushion and strong current form, Reitan controls his destiny to claim top European honors.
Max McGreevy: Top USA (+1400)
Max McGreevy has every reason to finish as the top American in the Cognizant Classic despite currently sitting at -3 and tied for ninth. He has shown steadiness in his ball striking and composure under pressure, which are critical on a challenging course. His approach shots have been consistently finding favorable positions, and his putting has been sharp enough to convert key opportunities.
Momentum can shift quickly in professional golf, especially over the final rounds, and McGreevy has proven he can elevate his performance when it matters most. While he sits five shots behind Austin Smotherman at -8, the leaderboard is far from static, and strong weekend play has vaulted many competitors into contention. Given his current rhythm, confidence, and ability to manage his game effectively, McGreevy has the tools to climb. Finishing top American is possible if he maintains focus and executes well consistently.
🌦️ Friday's weather at PGA National Resort
Weather from Accuweather.com:
| 🌤️ Category | 📊 Details |
|---|---|
| 🌡️ High Temperature | 86 degrees |
| 🌫️ Conditions | Very warm with periods of clouds and sunshine; a thunderstorm late in the afternoon |
| 🌬️ Wind | 9 mph |
| 💨 Wind Gusts | 15 mph |
| 🌧️ Precipitation Probability | 55% |
| 🌧️ Expected Precipitation | 0.5 in |
| ☁️ Cloud Cover | 53% |
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