John Deere Classic 2026: What Iowa Fans Need to Know

The John Deere Classic returns to the Quad Cities this week, bringing premier PGA Tour golf right to the Iowa border. As the tournament marks over 50 years of competition, Iowa fans will watch a field led by Chris Gotterup, a struggling Jordan Spieth, and local favorite Zach Johnson. The event also celebrates its deep agricultural roots, giving players a chance to operate real John Deere machinery before the competition begins.

Where is the John Deere Classic played?

TPC Deere Run is located in Silvis, Illinois, sitting right on the Iowa border in the Quad Cities area along the Mississippi River. While the course is technically in Illinois, the tournament has deep Iowa ties. In its early days, the event was actually held in Iowa. The course itself sits on the site of a former Arabian horse farm, offering a scenic backdrop for the week.

Which players should Iowa golf fans watch?

The field may lack the top ten players in the world, but it features several compelling storylines for heartland fans.

• Chris Gotterup: The highest ranked player in the field at number 14, Gotterup caught fire last year around this time, winning the Scottish Open and finishing third in the Open Championship.
• Zach Johnson: The Iowa native and Cedar Rapids resident is always a fan favorite. Johnson and Steve Stricker, who won three straight titles from 2009 to 2011, have combined for four victories at this event.
• Jackson Koivun: The highly touted amateur makes his professional debut this week.
• Rickie Fowler and Max Homa: Both players are looking to recapture their form and string together strong finishes.

What is going on with Jordan Spieth?

Jordan Spieth is in the field, but his recent play has raised serious concerns. Spieth has struggled mightily, missing the cut at the Memorial Tournament, limping to a T-56 finish at Shinnecock, and placing 66th out of 72 players at the Travelers Championship. Despite his past success at TPC Deere Run, where he has won twice, expectations are remarkably low for the former champion this week.

How does TPC Deere Run play?

Scoring at the John Deere Classic is notoriously low. The course features three par-5s that PGA Tour players demolish, averaging about 1.5 strokes under par cumulatively. As past champion Michael Kim noted on social media, the key to winning is "birdies and lots of them."

However, recent changes to the course have tightened the fairways and shifted some bunkers. Players who struggle off the tee will face punishment, adding a slight layer of difficulty to what is traditionally a shootout. The course remains a favorite among players for its scorable layout.

How do upcoming PGA Tour changes affect the John Deere Classic?

The PGA Tour is planning significant changes for 2028 under new leadership, which could impact events like the John Deere Classic. If the tournament does not make the cut for the championship series, it could end up competing against those higher-tier events on the same weekend, which would severely hurt its visibility and field strength.

On the other hand, if the John Deere Classic secures a weekend where no championship series event is scheduled, it could actually elevate its status. A standalone weekend gives heartland tournaments a chance to shine without being overshadowed, proving that there is still a strong market for traditional Tour stops outside the mega-events.

What is the John Deere Classic Big Dig?

Before the tournament begins, players get a unique opportunity to celebrate the tournament's sponsor. The annual Big Dig allows players to operate real John Deere heavy machinery, including backhoes and excavators, right on the grounds. It is a fitting tribute to the agricultural and manufacturing backbone of the Quad Cities, giving golfers a hands-on appreciation for the equipment that drives the local economy.

Has an Iowan ever won the John Deere Classic?

Yes. Iowa native Zach Johnson won the event in 2012, adding to the strong local legacy. Steve Stricker, who grew up just across the river in Wisconsin and is beloved by Iowa fans, won three consecutive times from 2009 to 2011.

Is Jordan Spieth playing in the 2026 John Deere Classic?

Yes, Jordan Spieth is in the 2026 field. He is a two-time winner of the event, but he enters the week struggling with his form after several poor finishes in recent weeks.