The debut of FBI’s seventh season on CBS brought major character shake-ups and intriguing new additions, leaving fans both excited and apprehensive. As Agent Omar Adom “OA” Zidan grapples with unexpected complications in his personal and professional life, a familiar face for One Chicago fans has made his way into the FBI universe — and it’s already stirring up drama. While the addition of Guy Lockard, formerly Dr. Dylan Scott on Chicago Med, is an exciting crossover for Dick Wolf universe enthusiasts, the character’s storyline could spell serious trouble for OA.
Saying Goodbye to Agent Tiff and Hello to a New Complication
Season 7 of FBI kicked off with some tough goodbyes, including Katherine Renee Kane’s Agent Tiffany “Tiff” Wallace, who departs, leaving Scola without his steadfast partner. But as one character exits, another intriguing addition steps in: Clay, an old army buddy of OA’s, portrayed by Chicago Med alum Guy Lockard. Clay’s arrival stirs up conflicting emotions for OA, who is forced to confront not only his past but also some serious ethical dilemmas. The reunion of OA and Clay introduces a layered storyline of friendship, loyalty, and secrecy, adding a dynamic new tension to the show.
Clay’s Complex Introduction: Old Ties and New Trouble
Clay’s character, introduced in Episode 2, quickly establishes that he’s no ordinary friend from OA’s past. Having saved OA’s life during their army days, Clay and OA share a deep bond, but Clay’s current line of work complicates things. Now working in the private sector for Pyramid Security, a company that operates in morally grey areas, Clay represents a world OA has tried to leave behind.
Their initial interactions set up a clear divide in their ideologies, with OA firmly standing by his role as an FBI agent and upholding the law, while Clay has shifted his focus toward private gain. “There is a big difference, Clay,” OA asserts. “I enforce the law; I help people. You enrich corporations.” Clay’s counterargument — that OA’s work is just as “cloak-and-dagger” as his — adds a layer of ambiguity and foreshadows the ethical challenges OA will face this season.
A High-Stakes Partnership and Compromised Loyalties
When OA reaches out to Clay for intel on Pyramid Security, their old camaraderie is tested. OA tries to keep his friend’s identity confidential, but Maggie, his partner, notices his uncharacteristic secrecy and urges him to come clean. Following her advice, OA confesses the truth to Isobel and proposes making Clay an official confidential informant rather than keeping him as a nameless source.
However, Clay’s casual acceptance of the CI deal raises red flags. His easygoing response suggests he may have ulterior motives, leaving fans wondering if OA has inadvertently walked into a trap. Clay’s influence and his work with Pyramid Security evoke a past OA may want to leave behind but can’t entirely escape. The notion of “old times,” as Clay describes it, suggests lingering complications that OA may not be able to shake off so easily.
Why Clay’s Presence Could Signal Trouble for OA
Guy Lockard’s character brings OA face-to-face with his own past and challenges his sense of morality. In an environment where integrity is paramount, Clay’s relaxed stance on bending the rules might pull OA into murky waters. OA’s dedication to the FBI and his team has always been uncompromising, so the conflict with Clay could expose a vulnerability he isn’t prepared for.
This storyline not only introduces a riveting character arc but also explores OA’s inner conflicts. Clay’s perspective forces OA to reflect on the choices he has made and whether the line between law enforcement and corporate interests is as clear-cut as he believes. The writers seem to be crafting a storyline where OA will need to navigate the tension between loyalty to his old friend and his duty as an FBI agent.
The One Chicago Crossover: A Win for Dick Wolf Universe Fans
Lockard’s role in FBI marks an exciting crossover for fans who remember him as Dr. Dylan Scott from Chicago Med. Although his time on Chicago Med ended abruptly, his return to Dick Wolf’s television world with FBI offers a fresh perspective on his acting range. Lockard effortlessly transitions from a compassionate physician to a morally ambiguous private security operator, providing a new level of intensity to the FBI storyline.
For fans, Lockard’s move across the Dick Wolf universe — from Chicago’s medical emergencies to the gritty world of FBI investigations — is a reminder of the intricate connections between these shows. The shared universe has previously introduced crossovers with characters from Law & Order and One Chicago, but Lockard’s transition from doctor to security operative brings something unique, showing how the actor can adapt to different roles within the franchise.
What Lies Ahead for OA and the Fly Team
With Clay’s ongoing presence, it’s clear that OA’s story will continue to evolve in ways fans may not expect. The moral dilemmas, possible conflicts with his colleagues, and looming suspicions about Clay’s motives are setting the stage for a tense season. OA’s relationship with Maggie and his superiors could face strain as he navigates his dual loyalty to his friend and his professional code.
As FBI Season 7 unfolds, OA’s journey promises to tackle complex themes of loyalty, ethics, and personal growth. Each episode has the potential to further develop his character and test the strength of his moral compass. With new episodes airing every Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET, followed by FBI: International and FBI: Most Wanted, fans have a full night of suspenseful storytelling on CBS. For those who can’t watch live, Paramount+ offers next-day streaming, ensuring that every twist and turn in OA’s journey is accessible to viewers.
In summary, Guy Lockard’s role as Clay adds a compelling new chapter to FBI Season 7. The friendship between Clay and OA could either become an enduring partnership or a catastrophic entanglement, depending on how the storyline unfolds. While fans are thrilled to see Lockard back, the tension he brings may push OA into a season-long struggle between past loyalties and present responsibilities.
