 He played college golf at the University of North Texas (one year) and then transferred to Texas A&M University for his final three years, graduated in 2000, and turned professional.In his early professional career, Palmer played on the mini-tours (Tightlies Tour and Hooters Tour) from 2000 to 2002.He played the Nationwide Tour in 2003, winning the Clearwater Classic and finishing 6th on the money list to earn his 2004 PGA Tour card.