Smylie Kaufman – NBC Sports Analyst Returns for 2025 Masters Coverage
Smylie Kaufman has transformed from PGA Tour competitor to one of the rising stars in golf broadcasting. The former tour winner joined NBC Sports in January 2023 and quickly established himself as an insightful on-course reporter for the network’s golf coverage. Kaufman’s natural talent for commentary and diligent work ethic have helped him find a new path in golf after his playing career, making him a valuable addition to the NBC Sports team.
His transition to broadcasting represents a successful career pivot for the 32-year-old. As a player, Kaufman captured a PGA Tour victory and famously played in the final Sunday pairing at the 2016 Masters. Now at NBC and Golf Channel, he brings that competitive experience to viewers, offering analysis from a perspective that few commentators possess. The former player moves constantly during broadcasts – checking lies, reading greens, and finding optimal vantage points to deliver insights.
While Kaufman’s playing days featured highs and lows, his broadcasting career seems to be on a steady upward trajectory. He’s balanced his new role with personal milestones, enjoying marriage and fatherhood while analyzing shots for golf fans. His authentic voice and player’s perspective have made him a welcome addition to NBC’s golf coverage team.
Contents
Early Life and Career
Smylie Kaufman’s journey from Alabama roots to professional golf showcases his development as both a collegiate standout and PGA Tour competitor. His career path features significant milestones that helped shape his transition to broadcasting.
College Years at LSU
Smylie Kaufman’s collegiate career was centered at Louisiana State University, where he spent four formative years on the golf team. The Birmingham, Alabama native earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing while competing for the Tigers.
At LSU, Kaufman developed the fundamentals that would later serve him in professional competition. His time in Baton Rouge helped refine his swing mechanics and mental approach to the game.
The collegiate experience proved valuable for Kaufman’s development, balancing academic responsibilities with athletic competition. His years representing the purple and gold prepared him for the challenges of professional tournament play.
Professional Debut and PGA Tour Victory
After turning professional in 2014, Kaufman quickly made his mark on the golf world. His breakthrough moment came with a PGA Tour victory at the Shriners Hospitals for Children Open, establishing him as a promising talent.
The 2016 Masters Tournament represented a career highlight for Kaufman. He found himself in the final pairing on Sunday, playing alongside defending champion Jordan Spieth. Though he ultimately finished T29, the experience showcased his ability to compete at golf’s highest level.
| Year | Achievement |
|---|---|
| 2014 | Turned Professional |
| 2015 | First PGA Tour Victory (Shriners) |
| 2016 | Played in final Sunday pairing at Masters |
This early success demonstrated Kaufman’s potential and earned him recognition within golf circles, setting the stage for his later career transitions.
Notable Achievements
Smylie Kaufman’s career features several standout moments that helped establish his reputation in professional golf before his transition to broadcasting. His early success laid the groundwork for his current role with NBC Sports.
2016 Masters Performance
Kaufman’s most memorable tournament performance came at the 2016 Masters at Augusta National. He shocked the golf world by playing his way into the final Sunday pairing with Jordan Spieth. This marked a remarkable achievement for the then-rookie on the PGA Tour.
Kaufman shot a solid 69 in the third round to earn his spot in the final group. The pressure of Augusta’s back nine proved challenging, as he carded an 81 on Sunday to finish T-29.
Despite the difficult final round, his presence in the final pairing of golf’s most prestigious tournament represented a significant milestone. This performance came shortly after winning his maiden PGA Tour title at the 2015 Shriners Open with a spectacular final-round 61.
PGA Championship Participation
Kaufman competed in multiple PGA Championships during his active playing career. His best finish came early in his career as he established himself on the Tour.
His path to these major championships began during his successful 2015 season on the Web.com Tour, where he earned his PGA Tour card after missing the cut in his first three tournaments but rebounding with two T-4 finishes and a victory.
Kaufman’s major championship appearances helped boost his world ranking to as high as 48th globally. These performances, while not resulting in victories, demonstrated his ability to qualify for and compete in golf’s biggest events.
Ryder Cup Insights
Though Kaufman never played in the Ryder Cup as a competitor, his close relationships with Ryder Cup team members give him valuable perspective in his current broadcasting role.
Kaufman was part of the famous “spring break posse” that included Ryder Cup stalwarts Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, and Rickie Fowler. These friendships provided him with insider knowledge of team dynamics.
His understanding of the tournament’s pressure and strategy has made him a valuable analyst when covering Ryder Cup events for NBC Sports since joining their broadcasting team in 2022.
Kaufman brings authenticity to his Ryder Cup coverage by drawing on personal relationships with players and firsthand observations of the preparation and mindset required for golf’s premier team competition.
Transition to Broadcasting
Smylie Kaufman’s move from professional golf to broadcasting has been a successful career pivot. His natural on-camera presence and deep knowledge of the game have quickly made him a valued voice in golf media.
Joining NBC and Golf Channel
Kaufman officially joined NBC Sports and Golf Channel in 2023, marking a significant shift from competitor to commentator. The former PGA Tour winner was brought on alongside veteran Brad Faxon to fill roles vacated by Gary Koch and Roger Maltbie.
The timing proved perfect for Kaufman, who had been gradually moving away from competitive golf. His addition to the broadcast team came as he was also embracing new chapters in his personal life, enjoying marriage and fatherhood.
NBC’s decision to bring Kaufman aboard represented a strategic move to add younger voices with recent playing experience to their coverage team.
Role as On-Course Reporter
As an on-course reporter, Kaufman has quickly distinguished himself through his ability to analyze shots and provide informed commentary. His recent competitive experience gives him unique insight into course conditions, player decision-making, and modern playing techniques.
Kaufman’s transition was not accidental but reflected natural talent and diligent work in developing broadcasting skills. His personable nature and relatable perspective have resonated with viewers.
His broadcasting responsibilities include:
- Providing real-time shot analysis
- Conducting player interviews
- Offering strategic course insights
- Contributing to studio coverage
Kaufman’s ease in front of the camera belies his relatively recent career change, demonstrating why NBC has invested in his broadcasting future.
Colleagues and Collaborations
Smylie Kaufman’s transition to broadcasting has been marked by meaningful partnerships with established and respected golf analysts. His integration into NBC’s golf team showcases the network’s commitment to bringing fresh perspectives to their coverage.
Working with Brad Faxon
When Kaufman joined NBC Sports in January 2023, he wasn’t the only new addition to the team. Brad Faxon also came aboard as part of NBC’s refreshed commentary lineup. The pair were brought in following the departures of veterans Gary Koch and Roger Maltbie, signaling a new direction for the network’s golf coverage.
Faxon, with his eight PGA Tour wins and respected putting expertise, complements Kaufman’s more recent playing experience. Their contrasting backgrounds—Faxon’s traditional approach versus Kaufman’s modern perspective—creates an interesting dynamic during broadcasts.
Together they’ve worked alongside established NBC talents like Notah Begay III and John Wood, creating a blend of experienced voices and fresh insights.
Influence of David Feherty
David Feherty’s distinctive broadcasting style has clearly influenced Kaufman’s approach to on-course reporting. Feherty’s ability to blend humor with insightful analysis provided a template for Kaufman as he developed his own broadcasting voice.
Though they didn’t overlap extensively at NBC (Feherty departed for LIV Golf before Kaufman’s arrival), Feherty’s impact on golf broadcasting set standards that Kaufman appears to follow—particularly in making technical aspects of the game accessible to casual viewers.
Kaufman’s on-course reporting echoes Feherty’s knack for capturing the tension of crucial moments while maintaining viewer engagement. His transition from player to analyst mirrors Feherty’s own career path, creating a natural connection between their broadcasting approaches.
Kaufman’s commentary often references lessons and perspectives gained from watching Feherty’s work during his playing years.
Major Golf Events Coverage
Smylie Kaufman has quickly established himself as a standout member of NBC Sports’ golf coverage team since joining in January 2023. His expertise shines particularly bright during the network’s coverage of golf’s most prestigious tournaments.
The Masters Commentary
Kaufman brings a unique perspective to NBC’s Masters coverage, drawing from his own experience competing in the tournament. His commentary balances technical insights with approachable explanations for casual viewers.
During the 2024 Masters, his analysis of Augusta National’s notoriously tricky greens earned praise from viewers and fellow broadcasters alike. Kaufman’s ability to break down the subtle breaks and speeds that challenge even the world’s best players adds valuable depth to the broadcast.
His pre-tournament “Green Jacket Journey” segments have become viewer favorites, where he interviews past champions about their memorable moments at Augusta. Kaufman’s personal connection to the event helps him extract compelling stories from players that might otherwise remain untold.
U.S. Open Contributions
For USGA events, Kaufman serves primarily as an on-course reporter, providing real-time insights from inside the ropes. His close proximity to players allows viewers to experience the tension and strategy of U.S. Open competition.
Kaufman’s coverage of the challenging course setups has become a highlight of NBC’s U.S. Open broadcasts. He effectively communicates how the USGA’s course preparations impact player strategy and scoring.
| Year | U.S. Open Role | Notable Coverage Elements |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | On-Course Reporter | Player interviews, rough thickness measurements |
| 2024 | Course Analyst | Wind effect analysis, putting green speeds |
| 2025 | Featured Analyst | Scheduled for expanded digital coverage |
His digital content for U.S. Open week includes popular course walkthrough videos that preview the challenges awaiting players at each hole.
Players Championship Highlights
The Players Championship is one of Kaufman’s most significant broadcasting assignments. As part of NBC’s comprehensive coverage across multiple platforms, he’s developed several signature segments.
His “Island Green Chronicles” at TPC Sawgrass’ famous 17th hole captures the drama and nerves players face at one of golf’s most iconic par-3s. During the 2025 Players Championship, Kaufman was positioned at this hole for extended coverage.
Kaufman’s “Happy Hour” segment, which continues into 2025, offers a relaxed setting for player conversations that reveal personalities beyond their on-course personas. These interviews regularly generate social media buzz during tournament week.
His technical breakdown of the Stadium Course’s most pivotal holes has become essential viewing for fans seeking to understand the strategic elements that determine the tournament winner.
Personal Life
Smylie Kaufman balances his professional career with a fulfilling personal life. He divides time between family commitments and interests away from the spotlight of professional golf.
Family and Relationships
Kaufman resides in Birmingham, Alabama with his wife Francie. The couple has embraced parenthood, with Kaufman enjoying his role as a father. His transition from PGA Tour player to NBC/Golf Channel analyst has coincided with significant personal milestones.
Marriage and fatherhood have become central aspects of Kaufman’s life. According to reports, he has embraced family life alongside his broadcasting career. His daughter has become a priority, showing how his focus has evolved beyond the fairways and greens.
The stability of family life in Birmingham provides Kaufman with a strong foundation as he builds his broadcasting career.
Life Beyond the Green
Outside of golf and broadcasting, Kaufman maintains connections to his alma mater LSU, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing. His college experience shaped not only his golfing career but also his professional path after active competition.
Kaufman’s transition into broadcasting didn’t happen by accident. He has developed a reputation for thoroughness, often seen checking lies, reading greens, and finding high ground during tournaments to provide insightful commentary.
His work ethic translates to his off-camera life as well. Kaufman balances preparation for broadcasts with family time and personal interests, creating a well-rounded life after his days of competitive play.
Peacock and Digital Expansion
Smylie Kaufman has expanded his presence beyond traditional broadcast roles, becoming a key figure in NBC’s digital strategy for golf coverage. His versatility has proven valuable as NBC Sports continues to grow its streaming platforms with specialized golf content.
Exclusive Content and Interviews
Kaufman has become an integral part of NBC’s digital expansion strategy, particularly on Peacock. In 2024, he began hosting the innovative “Happy Hour” coverage on Friday afternoons. This segment features Kaufman operating from a traveling set where he narrates action directly from tournament grounds.
His digital repertoire includes serving as an on-course reporter for major championships. In 2022, he covered the U.S. Open for Peacock and worked the PGA Championship for ESPN+, demonstrating his cross-platform appeal.
For the 2024 U.S. Open, Kaufman will be positioned at the 15th hole for the “Fridays with Smylie” segment, bringing viewers closer to the action through his player insights.
Innovations in Golf Broadcasting
Kaufman’s approach to golf commentary represents NBC’s push to modernize tournament coverage. His casual, player-centric style offers viewers a fresh perspective that contrasts with traditional broadcasting.
NBC Sports, bolstered by its Peacock streaming service, has leveraged Kaufman’s appeal to attract younger viewers. The “Happy Hour” concept directly targets casual fans who might tune in after work on Fridays.
The network’s commitment to digital innovation includes Kaufman in the “U.S. Open All Access Presented by Deloitte” whip-around coverage. This format allows for more dynamic viewing experiences as Kaufman provides real-time analysis.
| Kaufman’s Digital Roles | Platform | Year Introduced |
|---|---|---|
| Happy Hour Host | NBC/Peacock | 2024 |
| U.S. Open On-Course Reporter | Peacock | 2022 |
| PGA Championship Coverage | ESPN+ | 2022 |
Mentorship and Legacy
Smylie Kaufman’s transition from PGA Tour player to broadcaster has been shaped by significant mentorships and is now influencing the next generation of golf commentators.
Influences from Veteran Commentators
When Kaufman joined NBC Sports in January 2023, he stepped into a booth filled with broadcasting titans. Dan Hicks took Kaufman under his wing, sharing insights from his decades of experience calling major championships.
Paul Azinger’s analytical approach to commentary helped Kaufman develop his own style of breaking down swings and course strategy. The former PGA Tour winner quickly absorbed Azinger’s ability to translate player psychology to viewers.
Gary Koch’s mentorship proved particularly valuable for Kaufman’s on-course reporting. Koch taught him the art of positioning and timing – knowing exactly when to speak and when to let the moment breathe.
Executive producer Molly Solomon has been instrumental in Kaufman’s development, challenging him to bring his authentic personality to broadcasts while maintaining professional standards.
Impact on New Golf Commentators
Kaufman has quickly emerged as a model for former players transitioning to broadcasting. His natural on-air presence and willingness to prepare thoroughly have set a new standard for aspiring commentators.
Trevor Immelman has noted how Kaufman’s commitment to studying both the technical aspects of broadcasting and player tendencies has influenced his own approach to commentary work.
Kaufman regularly conducts informal workshops with production assistants and newer commentators, sharing his experience of balancing analysis with entertainment. His podcast “The Smylie Show” has become a training ground for developing broadcast skills.
Damon Hack credits Kaufman with bringing fresh energy to golf broadcasts, particularly in connecting with younger viewers while respecting the traditions of the sport.
Former tour player Arron Oberholser has adopted elements of Kaufman’s conversational style that makes complex golf concepts accessible to casual fans.
Industry Relations and Partnerships
Smylie Kaufman has cultivated significant professional relationships across the golf industry since joining NBC Sports in January 2023 as an on-course reporter. His transition from PGA Tour player to media personality has opened doors to various collaborative opportunities and partnerships.
Collaboration with Golfweek
Kaufman’s media presence extends beyond NBC Sports through strategic partnerships with established golf publications. His collaboration with Golfweek has enhanced his visibility in the golf media landscape, providing him with a platform to share insights from his playing days and current perspective as a broadcaster.
The partnership became evident during coverage of the Honda Classic, where Kaufman provided expert analysis that was featured in Golfweek’s tournament coverage. His unique position as both former player and current broadcaster gives him credibility that few analysts possess.
Kaufman recently partnered with Swag Golf, a premium golf accessory company, further expanding his business relationships beyond traditional media outlets. This partnership demonstrates his growing influence in golf lifestyle branding.
Understanding LIV Golf Dynamics
Kaufman has positioned himself as an informed voice on the evolving dynamics between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. His analysis avoids taking strong sides in the contentious debate, instead focusing on providing viewers with balanced perspectives on the sport’s changing landscape.
During tournament broadcasts, Kaufman frequently provides context on how LIV Golf’s emergence has affected player decisions and tournament fields. His experience competing against many current LIV players during his PGA Tour career gives him unique insight.
His commentary during the Shriners Hospitals for Children Open addressed how the tournament’s field had changed in the post-LIV era. Kaufman’s approach to discussing these sensitive industry topics has earned him respect from colleagues at both NBC and Sky Sports, where his analysis occasionally appears through NBC’s international partnerships.
This balanced approach is now finding a wider audience through “The Smylie Show,” his podcast and streaming program that recently secured a multi-year agreement with SportGrid.
Player Perspectives
Smylie Kaufman brings unique insights to NBC’s golf coverage due to his relationships with today’s top players. His firsthand experience competing alongside golf’s elite allows viewers to gain a deeper understanding of player strategies and mindsets during tournaments.
Insights from Jordan Spieth
Jordan Spieth and Kaufman share a memorable connection from the 2016 Masters when they played in the final pairing on Sunday. Kaufman often jokes with Spieth during broadcasts, including a humorous comparison about running from an alligator at the 2017 Arnold Palmer Invitational.
Kaufman provides thoughtful analysis on Spieth’s renowned short game skills. He often highlights Spieth’s exceptional putting statistics and creative approach around the greens.
During Spieth’s appearances at the Sentry Tournament of Champions at Kapalua, Kaufman frequently refers to Spieth’s course management skills on the undulating Hawaiian terrain. Their friendship allows for candid insights that casual fans wouldn’t typically access.
| Year | Spieth-Kaufman Tournaments Together | Notable Moment |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Masters Tournament | Final Sunday pairing |
| 2017 | Arnold Palmer Invitational | Alligator incident |
| 2018 | Sentry Tournament of Champions | Kapalua showdown |
Commentaries on Rory McIlroy
Kaufman’s analysis of Rory McIlroy often focuses on the Northern Irishman’s powerful driving ability and overall athleticism. When covering McIlroy’s tournaments, Kaufman brings technical expertise to explain McIlroy’s swing mechanics and course strategy decisions.
During FedExCup events, Kaufman frequently references McIlroy’s impressive record in the playoffs. He provides context about McIlroy’s three FedExCup championships (2016, 2019, 2022) while analyzing his current performances.
Kaufman’s on-course reporting includes detailed observations about McIlroy’s lies and green reads. His experience as a former competitor helps viewers understand the challenges McIlroy faces with particular shots.
“Rory’s ball flight is the most impressive aspect of his game,” Kaufman often notes during broadcasts. “The combination of height and distance gives him advantages few others possess.”
Highlights of Justin Thomas’s Career
Kaufman and Thomas share a connection as contemporaries who turned professional around the same time. When covering Thomas’s tournaments, Kaufman brings personal insights about JT’s competitive drive and work ethic.
Thomas’s breakthrough 2017 season, including his PGA Championship victory and FedExCup title, remains a frequent reference point in Kaufman’s commentary. He contextualizes Thomas’s current performances against this career-defining year.
At Kapalua, Kaufman often highlights Thomas’s course record 61 and his dominance at the Sentry Tournament of Champions. His analysis includes detailed breakdowns of Thomas’s exceptional wedge play and aggressive approach.
“Justin’s iron play separates him from his peers,” Kaufman typically explains. “His ability to control trajectory and distance with his irons creates scoring opportunities others simply don’t have.”
| Year | Thomas Major Wins | FedExCup Finishes |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | PGA Championship | Champion |
| 2022 | PGA Championship | 5th |
Role of the Putting Coach
Smylie Kaufman’s experience as a player gives him unique insight when discussing the crucial role of putting coaches in professional golf. Top players rely heavily on these specialized coaches to refine their stroke mechanics and green reading abilities.
When analyzing putts, Kaufman frequently points out how players and their coaches work together to break down the subtle breaks that average viewers might miss. He’s particularly adept at explaining how putting coaches help players manage the mental aspects of crucial putts.
“The relationship between player and putting coach is like a quarterback and offensive coordinator,” Kaufman often notes during broadcasts. Players like Scheffler credit putting coaches for transforming their game on the greens, often turning three-shot holes into two-shot opportunities.
Kaufman’s commentary is especially valuable when reading greens from his position on the course. He gives viewers insights they couldn’t get from fixed camera positions.
Analyzing the Final Pairing
The final pairing on Sunday represents the culmination of a tournament, and Kaufman brings technical precision to these high-pressure moments. His commentary during these critical pairings showcases his understanding of both the mechanical and psychological elements at play.
Kaufman excels at breaking down the strategic choices players make when competing head-to-head. He identifies subtle adjustments in stance, grip pressure, and club selection that might influence outcomes.
During recent broadcasts, Kaufman has highlighted how players in the final pairing often adjust their aggression based on their opponent’s position. “Notice how he’s playing more conservatively after his opponent found the fairway bunker,” he might observe.
His firsthand experience as a tournament winner at the Shriners Children’s Open gives Kaufman credibility when analyzing these pressure-packed situations. He recognizes the technical adjustments players make when a birdie opportunity presents itself versus when par becomes the primary goal.
Defining Moments at the Honda Classic
The Honda Classic has produced some of golf’s most dramatic finishes. Kaufman’s technical commentary enhances viewer understanding of these pivotal moments. His analysis often focuses on the unique challenges presented by PGA National’s notorious “Bear Trap.”
During the 2024 Honda Classic, Kaufman masterfully explained how wind conditions affected club selection on the par-3 17th:
“With this crosswind, players must start the ball over the water and let it drift back—a terrifying prospect even for professionals,” he noted.
Kaufman’s ability to analyze shots is particularly valuable during tournament-defining moments. He clearly articulates the risk-reward decisions players face when deciding whether to attack pins or play conservatively.
His commentary on bunker play during crucial moments stands out. He often references the technical aspects that amateurs overlook when watching professionals execute under pressure.
