The 2026 PGA Championship is shaping up to be one of the most exciting majors in recent memory, and the field at Aronimink Golf Club is absolutely stacked. Thanks to the PGA Championship's unique lifetime exemption for past winners, over a dozen former champions will tee it up this week—including Jason Dufner, Brooks Koepka, and Martin Kaymer. For these three, this exemption is a lifeline, as they wouldn't have otherwise qualified for the year's second major, which kicks off Thursday.
Among the longshots, Koepka stands out at +4000 odds. A four-time PGA Championship winner would be a historic feat, and he's the shortest of the three former champs on the odds board. But the real story is at the top. Reigning champion Scottie Scheffler enters as the +480 favorite, with two-time winner Rory McIlroy close behind at +950. Other heavy hitters include Cameron Young (+1200), Jon Rahm (+1500), and Matt Fitzpatrick (+2200).
Before you place any bets, it's worth checking out the predictions from the proven computer model at SportsLine. This model, built by DFS pro Mike McClure, simulates every PGA Tour event 10,000 times—and it has an incredible track record. It's nailed 17 majors entering the weekend, including the 2026 Masters (its fifth Masters in a row), as well as last year's PGA Championship and Open Championship. For the 2026 PGA Championship, the model has run its simulations again, and the results are surprising.
One of the model's biggest takeaways? Cameron Young (+1200), the world No. 3 and third on the odds board, might not even crack the top five. Young has had a breakout season, winning the Players Championship and the Cadillac Championship earlier this month. But his major record tells a different story. He's 0 for 19 in major tournaments, with as many missed cuts (seven) as top-25 finishes. Over his last three PGA Championship starts, he's finished 47th, 63rd, and missed the cut entirely. While Young is widely considered one of the best ball strikers on tour—ranking in the top 25 in all major ball-striking categories—his putting is a glaring weakness. He ranks 50th in strokes gained: putting, which could be his undoing at Aronimink.
For the full projected leaderboard and more expert picks, head to SportsLine now. And if you're looking to get in on the action, DraftKings Sportsbook is offering new users $100 instantly after a $5 bet on the 2026 PGA Championship. Don't miss out on what promises to be a thrilling week of golf.