2024 CJ Cup Byron Nelson preview: Venue, purse, players and more

As the PGA Tour continues its busy stretch, players are gearing up for the 2024 CJ Cup Byron Nelson. This year, the tournament returns to TPC Craig Ranch, marking the fourth time this par-71 layout has hosted the event. With ideal scoring conditions expected, players and spectators alike can anticipate plenty of birdies and a winning score potentially approaching 30 under.

Last year, Jason Day claimed victory at the then known as the AT&T Byron Nelson, marking his return to the winner’s circle after a five-year hiatus. As the defending champion, Day will look to become the first golfer since K.H. Lee in 2022 to successfully defend his title at this event. The field includes a mix of international players like Adam Scott, Min Woo Lee, and Sungjae Im, along with local favorites such as Jordan Spieth, who will be aiming to make his mark on home soil.

The CJ Cup Byron Nelson serves as a crucial opportunity for players to fine-tune their game before the upcoming major championship. With the Wells Fargo Championship on the horizon, competitors will be looking to make the most of their final preparations at TPC Craig Ranch.

The 2024 CJ Cup Byron Nelson: What to Expect

The CJ Cup Byron Nelson is set to take place at TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney, Texas. The course, a par-71 layout spanning 7,414 yards, is known for its challenging yet fair design. The course’s wide-open nature and ideal scoring conditions make it a favorite among players. 

The total purse for the CJ Cup Byron Nelson stands at a whopping $9.5 million, with the winner set to receive $1.71 million. This significant prize money adds an extra layer of excitement and competition to the tournament.

The field is packed with talented golfers, each bringing their unique strengths to the course. Jordan Spieth, the hometown kid, enters the tournament with odds of 14-1. Despite his recent form being “lacking” and a nagging wrist injury, Spieth’s familiarity with the course and his near-win a couple of years ago make him a player to watch.

The defending champion, Jason Day, comes in with odds of 20-1. Despite struggling with consistency, Day’s strong putting game could help him keep up in the expected birdie barrage.

Other notable players include Si Woo Kim (16-1), Adam Scott (22-1), and Min Woo Lee (25-1), who have shown promising signs in their first full season on the PGA Tour.

Expert Picks and Sleepers

One of the most recent winners in Texas, Stephan Jaeger with odds of 33-1, is a favorite to nab his second PGA Tour victory in a four-tournament span. The German has been brilliant in 2024, ranking 10th in strokes gained tee to green over the last three months.

Canadian Mackenzie Hughes, with odds of 45-1, is playing some high-quality golf at the moment. He has connected on five straight cuts, which includes a T3 at the Valspar Championship and a T14 at the Houston Open.

For those looking for a sleeper pick, David Skinns, with odds of 200-1, is a potential contender. So far in 2024, Skinns has either missed the cut or found his way into contention. With some experience now under his belt, Skinns should do much better should he find himself in a similar position.

As the 2024 CJ Cup Byron Nelson approaches, the anticipation builds. With a strong field, a challenging course, and high stakes, the tournament promises to be an exciting event. Whether a seasoned pro will take the title or a newcomer will make their mark remains to be seen. One thing is for sure: the 2024 CJ Cup Byron Nelson is a tournament no golf fan will want to miss.