Updated

Updated · golfchannel.com · Jun 29

DraftKings Lists Ben Griffin at +1300 for John Deere Classic as Michael Thorbjornsen Draws +3200 Pick

Updated

Updated · golfchannel.com · Jun 29

DraftKings Lists Ben Griffin at +1300 for John Deere Classic as Michael Thorbjornsen Draws +3200 Pick

Q: Is this the week rising star Michael Thorbjornsen finally captures his first PGA Tour victory?

Yes—this looks like one of Michael Thorbjornsen’s best chances yet to win his first PGA Tour title, though it is far from certain. The case for him is strong. TPC Deere Run suits his game, and he already proved that by finishing runner-up here in 2024 in just his third professional start, then adding another solid result at the course in 2025. This season he has posted six top-25 finishes, including a T3 at the WM Phoenix Open, and he ranks inside the top 20 in both driving distance and driving accuracy. On a course that rewards aggressive but controlled tee-to-green play, that profile matters. The timing also helps. This John Deere field lacks top-10 players, making it more open than many PGA Tour stops. Thorbjornsen also arrives relatively fresh after skipping the U.S. Open and Travelers, while some rivals come in off heavier recent schedules. Betting markets reflect that opportunity: at around +3200, he is viewed as a legitimate contender rather than a speculative longshot. The caution is that Deere Run often turns into a low-scoring putting contest, and that remains the biggest question. Thorbjornsen’s ball-striking gives him chances, but his putting and approach play have not always been reliable enough to close. He has also shown some inconsistency when in contention. So the answer is that this week sets up very well for Thorbjornsen. He has the course history, the talent and the opening in the field. If the putter cooperates, this could be the breakthrough.

3 articles · Updated · golfchannel.com · Jun 29

DraftKings installed Ben Griffin at +1300 and Chris Gotterup at +1375 as favorites for the 2026 John Deere Classic, with Jordan Spieth, Jackson Koivun and several young contenders close behind.
Michael Thorbjornsen emerged as the recommended outright play at +3200, backed by a prior T-2 at TPC Deere Run, six top-25 finishes this season and top-20 rankings in both driving distance and accuracy.
Davis Thompson was flagged as a value longshot at +5100 despite concerns over his putting, while deeper fliers included A.J. Ewart at +14000, Chad Ramey at +15000 and Luke Clanton at +17000.
Matt Wallace was the first-round leader pick at +5400 after a recent 62 in Torino, and Michael Kim was the best-bet placement play at +175 to finish top 20.
The Silvis, Illinois event lacks top-10 players but still features past winners and rising stars; defending champion Brian Campbell opened as a +21000 longshot to repeat.