Chicago Fire is heading into season 14 with big changes, emotional exits, and the hope of a fresh start. While the long-running NBC hit still dominates Wednesday nights, recent years have seen declining ratings and uneven storytelling. Now, fans and critics alike are wondering: can Chicago Fire reclaim its spark?

Major Cast Shake-Ups Ahead

Beloved faces are returning, including Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) and Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo). But season 14 also marks the departure of several longtime characters. Darren Ritter (Daniel Kyri), Jack Damon (Michael Bradway), and the recently-exited Carver (Jake Lockett) are all bowing out.

Carver’s exit may sting the most, as his arc brought intensity and heart to Firehouse 51. Still, the shake-ups could open the door for fresh dynamics and new recruits.

A Soft Reboot with a Time Jump

Insiders hint that season 14 will function as a “soft reboot.” By introducing a time jump, the show can skip over lingering storylines and dive straight into bold, new arcs.

This strategy could help the series reset, while giving viewers an immediate sense of clarity about where the characters stand. Done right, the time jump may bring the energy back to Chicago Fire that fans have been missing.

Ratings Remain Strong — But Slipping

Even with its challenges, Chicago Fire remains a powerhouse for NBC. According to TV Series Finale, season 13 averaged a 0.39 rating in the key 18–49 demographic, down from 0.49 in season 12.

That steady decline suggests that while the show is still popular, audiences may be craving fresher storylines and higher-stakes drama. If season 14 delivers, it could stabilize ratings and even bring back lapsed fans.

Can Chicago Fire Rise Again?

After years of leaning into soapy tropes and uneven resolutions, fans are eager for a tighter, more grounded Chicago Fire. With beloved characters returning, new blood joining the mix, and a time jump promising fresh energy, season 14 has the tools it needs to reignite the flames.