NCIS season 23 may be setting up Timothy McGee’s eventual move out of MCRT – and his perfect replacement could already be in place.
The current season has brought major changes to the series, including the death of Director Leon Vance and growing speculation over who could eventually lead NCIS. Many fans believe McGee is the strongest candidate for the director role thanks to his long history with the agency and years of experience on the team.
However, if McGee does become director, MCRT would need someone new to fill his spot. The season 23 finale may have quietly introduced that replacement through Mateo, McGee’s previously revealed son, who is considering an internship with NCIS.
Mateo’s interest in the agency creates an interesting parallel to McGee’s own early years as a nervous but talented probie. Like his father, Mateo has strong computer skills and could naturally fit into the team dynamic. His addition would also keep McGee closely connected to MCRT even if he moves into a leadership position.
The idea also brings the show back to its roots. Early versions of the series focused heavily on inexperienced agents learning the job, including characters like Kate Todd, McGee, and Ellie Bishop. Introducing Mateo as a young newcomer would give the show another chance to build a major character from the ground up while continuing McGee’s legacy within the team.