Paolo Uggetti expressed that Xander Schauffele is poised for a strong performance at THE PLAYERS Championship after successfully overcoming an injury-related layoff. Schauffele, recovering from an acute intercostal rib strain, returned at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, quickly shaking off rust to make the cut after an opening-round 77 and ultimately finishing strong with a final-round 69. Importantly, Schauffele reported no lingering effects from the injury following the four competitive rounds. Uggetti emphasized Schauffele's determination, noting his newfound confidence and expectations after winning two majors last season. Given Schauffele's proven ability to perform under pressure at significant events, he appears well-prepared to quickly regain his place among the elite and contend strongly at TPC Sawgrass.

Paolo Uggetti highlighted Michael Kim as an undervalued sleeper at THE PLAYERS Championship, noting Kim's impressive rise from 155th to 52nd in the Official World Golf Ranking since the start of the year. Kim is playing arguably the best golf of his career, matching his elite junior days and strong college performances at UC Berkeley. After nearly seven years since his lone PGA Tour win at the 2018 John Deere Classic, Kim is trending upward significantly, particularly excelling at accurate ball striking. His strengths align especially well with TPC Sawgrass, which prioritizes accuracy over distance. Uggetti strongly recommended keeping an eye on Kim's continued breakout, positioning him as a smart value play at the event.

Paolo Uggetti believes Collin Morikawa is primed for success at THE PLAYERS Championship, highlighting Morikawa's elite iron play and precise ball striking as ideal fits for TPC Sawgrass. Despite a frustrating second-place finish at the Arnold Palmer Invitational—which Morikawa attributed to missing key putts down the stretch—he has been exceptionally consistent this season, ranking 10th in strokes gained approach (.908) and 27th in putting (.515). Historically a strong player in final rounds this season (17th in scoring average at 68 compared to 127th last season), Morikawa expressed frustration at coming up short recently but emphasized minor adjustments rather than a complete overhaul. With determination and confidence, Morikawa appears highly motivated to break through for his first PGA Tour win since the Zozo Championship in October 2023.