While most PGA Tour professionals are spending their week meticulously studying the undulating greens of TPC Louisiana, Andrew Novak has his attention divided between a title defense and the 2026 NFL Draft. As the 31-year-old Raleigh native prepares to defend his crown at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, he remains one of the most vocal and dedicated football fans in professional golf.
Defending the Title at TPC Louisiana
Andrew Novak enters this week in a familiar but high-pressure position. Alongside his partner Ben Griffin, Novak is the defending champion of the Zurich Classic, the PGA Tour's only regular-season team event. In 2025, the duo captured their first career victories in dramatic fashion, finishing at 28-under par to edge out Nicolai and Rasmus Højgaard by a single stroke.
The unique format of the Zurich Classic—alternating between Four-ball (best ball) and Foursomes (alternate shot)—requires a high level of chemistry and focus. However, for Novak, that focus is frequently tested by his passion for the NFL Draft. Known to be a die-hard supporter of the Carolina Panthers, Novak has a history of tracking draft picks even while in the heat of competition.
The Biggest NFL Fan on the PGA Tour
Novak’s credentials as a football superfan are well-established. Born in Raleigh and a graduate of Wofford College—the long-time home of the Panthers' training camp—his roots in North Carolina football run deep. He has previously stated that he would love to coach football once his professional golfing days are over, often spending his off-hours analyzing roster moves and fantasy football strategies.
His obsession with the NFL Draft reached legendary status among golf media in 2022. While competing at the Mexico Open, Novak famously signed his scorecard for an opening-round 66 and immediately rushed to the scoring trailer. He arrived just in time to see the Panthers select offensive tackle Ickey Ekwonu with the sixth overall pick, an event he celebrated with a fist pump and an immediate "A" grade for the front office.
Managing the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh
The timing of the 2026 NFL Draft, held this year in Pittsburgh, presents another logistical challenge for Novak. With Round 1 kicking off on Thursday night, April 23, Novak will likely be finishing his opening round in New Orleans just as the first names are called at Acrisure Stadium. While he aims to keep the Panthers' rebuilding efforts in the back of his mind, the golfer admits it is difficult to tune out the noise.
The Panthers, led by quarterback Bryce Young, are looking to bolster their roster after several seasons of struggle. Novak has been vocal about the team's needs, often engaging with fans and analysts on social media regarding draft prospects. For Novak, a successful weekend would involve two things: a Sunday trophy presentation in New Orleans and a haul of elite talent for Carolina.
A Busy Weekend for the Defending Champs
As Novak and Griffin look to become the first repeat winners in the current team format of the Zurich Classic, the competition will be fierce. The field in New Orleans remains deep, but Novak’s recent form—including a strong showing in the FedEx Cup standings—suggests he is up for the task. Whether he is standing over a crucial birdie putt or checking his phone for the latest trade rumors, Andrew Novak remains the ultimate crossover athlete-fan.
- Event: Zurich Classic of New Orleans
- Defending Champions: Andrew Novak and Ben Griffin
- NFL Interest: Carolina Panthers
- NFL Draft Dates: April 23-25, 2026
Sources & Original Reporting