The FedEx St. Jude Championship 2026 is underway, with a crowded leaderboard heading into the second round. Several golfers are vying for the lead after Thursday's play, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the opening FedEx Cup playoff event.

Among the top contenders are Michael Thorbjornsen, Jordan Spieth, Kurt Kitayama, Jake Knapp, and Michael Kim, all finishing Thursday at 5 under par. Close behind, just one shot adrift, are Sam Burns and Tommy Fleetwood, among others. The question remains whether any of these golfers will establish a significant lead as the tournament progresses into the weekend.

This event marks the start of the FedEx Cup playoffs, a crucial three-week stretch for golfers aiming to win the championship. The tournament is not only a test of skill but also a significant event in the golf calendar, offering substantial FedEx Cup points and prize money.