We thought Sam Carver (Jake Lockett) was going to be present for the rest of Chicago Fire season 13. The character was already confirmed to not be coming back for season 14, so it seemed to make sense that the series would use his remaining screen time to set up an exit and give fans what they wanted. Well, the episode "Cut Me Open" gave us half of what we expected.
Carver was missing from the episode, which was undeniably disappointing. In his absence, however, Chicago Fire brought some details to light that could serve as the foundation for the character's exit from Firehouse 51. Carver is only working part-time at 51, because he's still working to complete his rehab program. The character who once seemed poised to become the new Severide has now been chopped down to working half-shifts, and this feels like a pointed decision on the part of the writers.
Firehouse 51 is on the brink of layoffs
Why? Well, because Firehouse 51 is going to be forced to part ways with some of its firefighters by the end of the season. Carver was absent from "Cut Me Open," but Herrmann (David Eigenberg) and the rest of the team had to contend with a performance efficiency expert who was sent over by the CFD. The expert scrutinized the team in the field, and engaged in some firehouse shenanigans, but closed out the episode by confirming that 51 employees were going to be let go.
The expert singled out Herrmann and Mouch (Christian Stolte) as the most likely firefighters to be given the boot, given how close they both are to retirement, but we have a sneaking suspicion that things are going to change during the last two episodes of the season. Sure, Herrmann and Mouch being on the chopping block makes sense, but the synopsis for the season 13 finale already noted that Herrmann is going to take the chief's exam. He could, presumably, just sidestep the problem by accepting a promotion.
Carver's part-time role makes him an easy target
We find it hard to believe that both of these beloved characters would be written off the show. It makes much more sense for Carver, a 51 newcomer in comparison to his peers, and a man who has recently struggled with anger issues and substance abuse issues, would be let go. Especially since he has already been reduced to a part-time role.
Chicago Fire is in a tough spot narratively, since we already know that Carver is going to leave. The sense of surprise is gone, so the show has to set up some dramatic stakes or throw red herrings at us to keep us guessing up until the finale. "Cut Me Open" may not have featured Carver, but it did feel like an important step toward solidifying his departure.
And you know what? We still aren't looking forward to it.