After seven seasons of twists, betrayals, and emotional character arcs, The Rookie has shown time and again that even the most unlikely characters can have a major impact on John Nolan’s journey. But in a surprising turn, it may be the LAPD’s most flawed officer—the so-called “worst cop” on the show—who becomes the key to unlocking Nolan’s most powerful storyline yet.
Who Is the “Worst Cop”?
Every fan of The Rookie has a different answer when asked who the “worst cop” is. For some, it’s a recurring officer who has bungled investigations, ignored protocol, or clashed with Nolan’s idealistic approach. For others, it’s a character who has let personal flaws interfere with duty.
While the show has often introduced officers who make questionable choices, the term “worst cop” doesn’t always mean villainous. It can also mean the officer who struggles most with the pressures of the badge. And that vulnerability may be what makes them so crucial to Nolan’s future arc.
Why This Cop Could Define Nolan’s Storyline
John Nolan’s journey has always been about second chances. Starting his career in law enforcement at an age when most are retiring, Nolan has built his reputation on resilience, patience, and determination. His ability to guide, mentor, and even redeem others has become central to his character.
The “worst cop” storyline could push this theme further. Here’s how:
- Redemption Through Mentorship
Nolan has already stepped into a training role, guiding younger officers. If tasked with rehabilitating the LAPD’s weakest link, Nolan’s success or failure could become the defining moment of his career. - Conflict and Growth
The tension of working alongside someone unreliable could force Nolan to confront his own leadership style. Does he extend empathy, or does he take a hardline stance? The outcome could reshape how both Nolan and the department see him. - A Mirror of Nolan’s Own Journey
In many ways, Nolan himself was seen as the LAPD’s “worst rookie” when he first joined. By helping another officer rise above failure, Nolan could close the circle on his own transformation—from rookie to mentor, from doubted outsider to trusted leader.
How This Could Play Out in Season 8
Season 7 left fans with unresolved arcs, and Season 8 has the potential to raise the stakes. If writers decide to elevate the “worst cop” subplot, it could intersect with Nolan’s story in several ways:
- A Life-or-Death Situation: The flawed officer makes a mistake in the field, leaving Nolan to step in—possibly risking everything to protect both the officer and civilians.
- A Redemption Arc: With Nolan’s guidance, the “worst cop” surprises everyone by proving themselves during a critical case, highlighting Nolan’s talent as a leader.
- The Breaking Point: Alternatively, the officer’s continued failures could put Nolan in an impossible position—choosing between loyalty and duty. This moral struggle could become Nolan’s most personal storyline yet.
Fan Speculation and Theories
Fans have been buzzing online about which character might fit the role of “worst cop.” Some point to recurring background officers who often serve as comic relief, while others wonder if a main supporting character might temporarily fall into the role due to burnout, trauma, or corruption.
A popular theory suggests that the storyline could focus on an officer introduced in Season 8—a new recruit whose struggles highlight just how far Nolan has come since his rookie days. This would provide a symbolic reflection of Nolan’s career arc while giving fans a fresh face to rally behind.
Why This Matters for Nolan’s Legacy
For seven seasons, John Nolan has been defined by persistence and adaptability. Season 8 may be the time where those qualities are tested like never before. If Nolan can turn the “worst cop” into a competent, reliable officer, it won’t just be another case solved—it will be the ultimate proof that Nolan’s legacy is about more than surviving as a rookie. It’s about shaping the future of the LAPD.
Final Thoughts
The Rookie has never shied away from unexpected twists, and the idea of the department’s weakest link becoming central to Nolan’s journey fits perfectly into the show’s DNA. By leaning into themes of redemption, mentorship, and resilience, the writers have the opportunity to craft Nolan’s most meaningful storyline yet—one that could define not just Season 8, but the legacy of the entire series.
