As Tracker gears up for its third season, the anticipation among fans is intense—and so are the theories. With major casting changes, cliffhangers from Season 2, and the evolving emotional arc of Colter Shaw, the CBS drama finds itself at a turning point. Here’s a deep dive into what fans are predicting—and hoping—to see when Tracker returns.
1. Colter Shaw’s Isolation Will Take Center Stage
Following the confirmed departures of Robin Weigert (Velma) and Abby McEnany (Teddi Bruin), many fans believe that Season 3 will explore the emotional toll of Colter’s increasingly isolated life. Without his trusted allies, Colter may spiral into darker territory, forcing him to re-evaluate not just his job, but his purpose.
Reddit threads and fan forums are full of discussions about Colter’s potential vulnerability. Viewers are expecting a more introspective season—one that digs deeper into the emotional scars he’s been avoiding.
2. A Return for Colter’s Brother, Russell Shaw
The rumored return of Jensen Ackles as Russell Shaw has ignited massive excitement. Fans speculate that Russell’s comeback could bring long-awaited answers about the family mystery introduced in earlier seasons.
Could Russell be an ally or a threat this time? Theories range from “he’ll join Colter on the road” to “he’s secretly working against him.” Either way, fans are eager to see their sibling dynamic evolve, especially given their fraught past.
3. A Major Romantic Development?
While Tracker has largely avoided deep romantic entanglements for Colter, some fans believe Season 3 may change that. With Velma and Teddi gone, there’s room to introduce a new female character—possibly someone with whom Colter can form a deeper bond.
There’s also growing support for a slow-burn romance with Reenie, who has shown quiet resilience and chemistry with Colter in past episodes. Whether platonic or romantic, fans expect their connection to become more meaningful.
4. Bobby Exley Steps Up
Bobby, played by Eric Graise, has been a fan favorite thanks to his humor, loyalty, and tech genius. With the team dynamic shifting, fans hope Bobby will take on a larger, more action-driven role.
Some even speculate that Bobby could get his own standalone episode—perhaps delving into his past, or placing him in a situation where he must solve a case on his own. Either way, audiences are rooting for Bobby to shine beyond just the comic relief.
5. More Serialized Storytelling
While Tracker has typically followed a case-of-the-week format, many fans are hoping for a more serialized structure in Season 3. With Colter’s family past, unresolved personal demons, and new character arcs unfolding, the stage is set for interconnected episodes that build toward a larger, more emotional payoff.
Some believe the show may take a page from Person of Interest or The Mentalist, allowing deeper narrative threads to tie the cases together with Colter’s own journey.
6. A New Antagonist Looms?
With the departure of familiar faces, fans are anticipating the arrival of a new long-term antagonist—someone who could challenge Colter both physically and psychologically. Could it be someone connected to his father’s mysterious death? Or maybe a rival bounty hunter with a dark agenda?
There’s even buzz that a character from Colter’s past could resurface, seeking revenge or redemption.
7. A Shift in Tone and Visual Style
Some fans are predicting that Tracker may experiment with tone and visuals in Season 3. The first two seasons were grounded, but occasionally formulaic. Now, with fewer restraints and more emotional risk on the table, viewers are hoping for bolder direction, moodier cinematography, and even grittier storytelling.
A Make-or-Break Season
In many ways, Season 3 feels like a reboot. With critical cast members gone, CBS and the creative team will have to balance fan expectations with narrative evolution. Viewers aren’t just hoping for more action—they’re craving deeper emotion, real consequences, and character growth.
If the series leans into its strengths—Justin Hartley’s grounded performance, emotional storytelling, and timely casework—it could reach new heights. But if it plays too safe, fans fear it might start to lose its unique voice.
For now, all eyes are on CBS, waiting for that first teaser trailer and official release date. Until then, the theories keep coming—and the hopes are sky-high.
