The CJ Cup Byron Nelson 2025 is set to take place from May 1 to 4 at the prestigious TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney, Texas. This annual PGA Tour event, one of the standout tournaments on the Texas golf calendar, is expected to feature an exciting roster of players from around the world. Defending champion Taylor Pendrith, who triumphed in 2024 with a sensational -23 finish, will be back to defend his title. He’ll face stiff competition this year, with other top players such as Jordan Spieth, Scottie Scheffler, and Justin Thomas among those expected to make a strong push for the title.

As much as the players make the event thrilling, the course itself, TPC Craig Ranch, has grown in significance since it became the host of the Byron Nelson in 2021. Located just outside Dallas in McKinney, Texas, TPC Craig Ranch is an integral part of this tournament’s identity. Designed by Tom Weiskopf and opening its doors in 2004, TPC Craig Ranch has established itself as one of the premier golf courses in Texas. Weiskopf, a former PGA Tour pro known for his keen design sense, crafted a course that mixes beauty and challenge in a seamless blend. The course’s design is anchored by Rowlett Creek, which winds through several holes, making it a defining feature of the course.

One of the standout holes, the 9th, is a 564-yard par-5 that requires both a well-executed drive and approach shot over Rowlett Creek—a true test of precision. The back nine is no less demanding, with several long par-4s that require skillful play. As noted by Daniel Wexler in The American Private Golf Club Guide, “The outward half’s standout is a three-shotter, the 564-yard 9th, which requires both drive and approach to cross Rowlett’s Creek.” The 12th hole, in particular, demands a long second shot over the creek, making it one of the signature challenges of the course.

But what really sets TPC Craig Ranch apart is its role in the prestigious Byron Nelson tournament. When the tournament moved to this venue in 2021, it was a pivotal moment in both the tournament’s and the course’s history. As a member of the TPC network, Craig Ranch is known for offering not only a challenging test of golf but also top-tier amenities. The course is private, meaning that its members enjoy exclusive access to the course, but it opens its doors to the public during the tournament, creating a unique atmosphere for fans and players alike.

Beyond the tournament itself, TPC Craig Ranch is recognized for its role in the community. The course is part of a larger residential development, making it an attractive location for golfers and non-golfers alike who want to enjoy luxury living with access to one of the best courses in Texas. The surrounding neighborhood contributes to the course’s significance as a community hub, blending the thrill of golf with a lifestyle that is hard to beat. The club also underwent a major renovation led by 21-time PGA Tour winner Lanny Wadkins. The project overhauled bunkers, greens complexes, irrigation, and turf, bringing TPC Craig Ranch up to elite standards with firmer, faster playing conditions. As winning scores have consistently pushed 23-under or better, including K.H. Lee’s 26-under record in 2022, the redesign aims to inject more challenge for pros while elevating everyday play for members.

As the CJ Cup Byron Nelson 2025 approaches, the historical and architectural significance of TPC Craig Ranch adds layers of intrigue and excitement to the event. Players like Pendrith, Spieth, and Scheffler will be vying for the title, but they will also be battling the demanding, strategic layout of Weiskopf’s design.

Betting odds for THE CJ Cup Byron Nelson 2025

As the 2025 THE CJ Cup Byron Nelson gets closer, the betting odds are stirring up plenty of excitement. One major surprise that’s catching attention is Jordan Spieth. Despite being one of the top favorites, the 13-time PGA Tour champion is projected to struggle this week and isn’t expected to crack the top five. Spieth has been solid in recent weeks, finishing T-18 or better in each of his last three starts, but he hasn’t won since 2022 and missed the cut at the 2024 CJ Cup Byron Nelson. His stats this season don’t bode well for a win: ranking 107th in greens in regulation, 108th in birdie average, and outside the top 50 in several key areas like driving accuracy and strokes gained: putting. For those betting on the 2025 CJ Cup, Spieth might be a better fade than a favorite.

On the flip side, there’s a surprisingly longshot gaining attention: Jacob Bridgeman. With 60-1 odds, he’s someone to keep an eye on as a potential dark horse. Bridgeman, still looking for his first PGA Tour win, has impressed in his recent form, finishing T-10 or better in two of his last four starts. His stats—especially in putting—are incredibly strong, ranking fifth in strokes gained: putting and 12th in putts per round. With a solid all-around game, Bridgeman is a fantastic value pick for anyone looking for a big payday at the 2025 CJ Cup Byron Nelson.

As for the favorites, Scottie Scheffler enters the tournament as the frontrunner at +280. The Texas native’s dominance on the course has made him a favorite in most events, and his familiarity with TPC Craig Ranch gives him a major edge. Other notable players include Sungjae Im (+2200), Byeong Hun An (+2500), and Si Woo Kim (+3000), who could all make deep runs depending on how the course plays out. With the competitive field and some surprises like Bridgeman, the 2025 CJ Cup Byron Nelson promises to be an exciting betting affair.