Mateo’s Navy Path Sets NCIS Up for the Best Way to Bring Back McGee’s Divisive Family Member

Mateo faces consequences

The Season 24 episode “Speechless” revisited Mateo’s database hack, first revealed in the Season 23 finale and addressed in the Season 24 premiere. Although the team and DiNozzo tried to give him the benefit of the doubt, Mateo still had to answer for what he did.

After Palmer urged McGee to speak as a father rather than a writer, McGee argued that Mateo should have a chance to demonstrate he had learned from his mistakes. He did not ask for Mateo to avoid all consequences, and he pointed to Torres and Parker’s ability to overcome adversity.

A route back to the team

The judge, who had overcome a difficult childhood, decided Mateo should have an opportunity to change instead of spending 10 years in the system. She made Navy service the condition, and Mateo agreed to join.

Mateo must complete boot camp before receiving a posting. Because McGee and the MCRT work with the Navy, his service gives the series a plausible way to reconnect him with the team and develop his relationship with his father.

A case could bring him back

A brief update could come when Mateo graduates from boot camp, but a larger return would need a substantial story. The article notes that Mateo’s earlier role was controversial and says a casual update may not be enough to justify his return.

One possibility is a suspicious incident at boot camp, such as a murder or misconduct by a training officer. The team might investigate after Mateo is suspected or framed, echoing a storyline in SWAT Season 8 involving Hondo’s cousin in the Marines.

Where Mateo attends boot camp could affect whether the D.C. team can take the case. If the location does not fit, NCIS could wait until his graduation and first posting before bringing him into a case.