11 Players Who Surprisingly Have a Lot on the Line With Two Weeks Left in the PGA Tour Regular Season
The PGA Tour regular season is winding down, and with just two weeks left before the FedEx Cup Playoffs, the stakes couldn’t be higher. For some players, these next events—the 3M Open and the Wyndham Championship—are about more than just winning; they’re fighting for playoff spots, career momentum, and a share of the season’s bonus money.
While we often expect big names to cruise into the postseason, this year’s tighter FedEx Cup cutoff (only the top 70advance) has created pressure on some surprising names. Here are 11 players with a lot riding on the final stretch.
1. Rickie Fowler
Fowler’s resurgence last year reminded golf fans why he was once a household name. But this season hasn’t gone as planned. Currently hovering near the FedEx Cup playoff bubble, Rickie needs a strong showing to secure his spot in the top 70. Missing out would be a huge blow for a player still seeking his way back into elite form.
2. Justin Thomas
It’s strange to see a two-time major winner sweating his playoff status, but Thomas has endured an inconsistent year. A missed cut or two in the next two weeks could knock him out of contention entirely. On the flip side, back-to-back strong finishes could propel him safely into the playoffs and restore confidence heading into the Ryder Cup discussions.
3. Sam Burns
Burns hasn’t had the explosive season many expected after his Ryder Cup debut. Sitting outside the comfortable playoff range, he’ll need a big finish at the 3M Open or Wyndham to avoid an early offseason. His putting remains a weapon, but will it be enough under pressure?
4. Adam Scott
The veteran Australian has been a model of consistency over the years, but his spot in the playoffs is far from guaranteed. Two more missed cuts could see him on the outside looking in, which would be shocking for a player of his caliber.
5. Maverick McNealy
McNealy has flashed promise but hasn’t been able to string together enough high finishes this year. Hovering near the cutoff line, the next two weeks are critical if he wants to keep his season alive.
6. Chris Gotterup
Gotterup made headlines with a stunning top-three finish at The Open Championship, vaulting him into the FedEx Cup conversation. Now the question is whether he can build on that momentum and lock up a spot in the top 30 for an even bigger payday.
7. Cameron Champ
Champ has been inconsistent all year, but his length off the tee makes him dangerous on the right course. He’s a past winner at the 3M Open, so don’t count him out. Anything less than a top-10 finish, however, might leave him scrambling at Wyndham.
8. Daniel Berger
Berger is still working his way back after injury setbacks. A few solid rounds could secure his playoff spot, but a stumble at this stage would see his season end abruptly.
9. Keith Mitchell
Known for his steady game, Mitchell hasn’t posted enough top finishes to feel safe. He needs at least one strong week to avoid leaving his fate to the Wyndham cutline drama.
10. Jordan Spieth
Yes, even Spieth is in a tricky spot. His highs are still high, but his inconsistency has left him vulnerable. If he fails to make the cut in either of the next two events, he could find himself out of playoff contention for the first time in years.
11. Xander Schauffele
Schauffele is well inside the top 70 but has eyes on a much bigger prize: the top 10 in the regular season, which comes with a share of a $20 million bonus pool. A strong finish could see him climb the ranks and set up a deep playoff run.
