Moore leads Byron Nelson as Koepka finds putting form

Taylor Moore has taken the solo lead after the first round of the 2026 CJ Cup Byron Nelson, carding a score of 62 at TPC Craig Ranch near Dallas, Texas. The round was completed late in the evening, establishing Moore at the top of the leaderboard ahead of a field that includes five-time major champion Brooks Koepka.

Koepka shared second place with a first-round score of 63, marking a significant return to form characterised by improved putting. The American golfer utilised a new putter for the second consecutive week, a change implemented following a poor performance at the PGA Championship. Koepka reported that the club felt comfortable during studio work and on-course play, a sentiment echoed by his coach, Rick Elliott.

The 63 included six birdies and one eagle, with Koepka gaining more than two strokes on the field with his putter. Despite hitting only three fairways, he managed 14 greens in regulation. The round was aided by preferred lies conditions, although Koepka noted he did not have the luxury of cleaning and placing his ball as much as he would have liked.

Defending champion Scottie Scheffler sits tied for third at five under par with a score of 66. Scheffler described his round as steady, noting he was close to the pace but required more precision with his irons and putts. He was part of a large group that also included Wyndham Clark, rookies Johnny Keefer and Neal Shipley, and 19-year-old Blades Brown.

Si Woo Kim shot a 64 to tie for fourth place, gaining more than 1.50 strokes on the greens and 1.30 strokes holing putts from off the green. Kim’s performance included 13 fairways and 16 greens in regulation, marking his 11th round of 66 or lower on the PGA Tour this season.

Blades Brown, who carded a 66, is competing for special temporary PGA Tour membership. A solo finish of 21st or better would allow him to accept unlimited sponsor exemptions for the season. Brown has shown strong form on both the Korn Ferry Tour and the PGA Tour in 2026.

The tournament continues at TPC Craig Ranch, with the leaderboard set to shift as the field navigates the challenging course conditions.