Not every television series needs to have an ensemble cast, and a show like Tracker is arguably at its best when it remains focused on its single central character. After all, that’s why audiences continue to tune into the CBS procedural. Justin Hartley’s Colter Shaw is an enjoyable protagonist whose interactions with locals in every state he visits makes the show unique compared to other procedurals on television. And yet, Colter needs his team to help solve each new case, even if Tracker often struggles to utilize these characters in an effective way. Going into its third season, that needs to change.
Why Season 3 Is a Crucial Turning Point for ‘Tracker’
Let’s be honest — Tracker is built around one powerhouse: Colter Shaw. But as we dive deeper into the storyline, it’s clear that the show is missing out on some serious potential by not fully tapping into the talents of Colter’s extended team. Season 3 is the perfect opportunity to switch gears and realign focus.
Who Is Colter Shaw, and Why Does His Team Matter?
A Quick Recap: The Genius of Colter Shaw
Colter Shaw isn’t just a rugged tracker-for-hire. He’s a modern-day Sherlock Holmes with GPS. His brilliance lies in reading situations, tracking people, and solving mysteries. But even the sharpest mind needs backup.
Meet the Team
Colter doesn’t operate alone — though it often feels that way. He’s had help from:
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Bobby Exley – His tech guru and remote support.
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Reenie Greene – A legal advisor and moral compass.
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Teddi Bruin and Velma – Private investigators he often consults.
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And others who pop in occasionally.
But here’s the kicker — they rarely get the spotlight. It’s time that changed.
The Problem: Underutilized Power Players
Side Characters Are Getting Side-Lined
In the first two seasons, Colter’s team felt more like side dishes than main courses. They offered advice, a tech assist here and there, or dropped a clue. That’s it. No real arcs, no growth, no agency.
Wasted Potential
These are smart, skilled individuals. Bobby’s hacking alone could drive an entire subplot. Reenie’s legal know-how could dig into the justice system or help tackle a moral dilemma. But the show hasn’t let them shine.
Why Season 3 Needs a Fresh Strategy
It’s Time to Go Ensemble
Shows like NCIS, Criminal Minds, and The Blacklist thrived by giving teams equal weight. The lead mattered — but so did every supporting player. It added depth, variety, and emotional pull. Tracker needs that dynamic.
Let Colter Lead… but Let Others Breathe
Colter’s lone-wolf identity doesn’t have to go. But what if we saw:
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Bobby in the field for once?
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Reenie taking on a case that complicates Colter’s moral stance?
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A full-episode flashback to Teddi and Velma’s past?
That’s how you build stakes and make audiences care.
Breaking Down Each Character’s Untapped Strength
Bobby Exley: The Tech Wizard With a Story to Tell
He’s always on the line — but never in the spotlight. Give Bobby a personal arc. Maybe he’s being blackmailed? Maybe an old hack of his resurfaces? Viewers love a digital rabbit hole.
Reenie Greene: Legal Brain, Ethical Heart
Reenie’s role is usually reactive — advising Colter after the fact. But imagine her taking initiative. Investigating a case of wrongful conviction, or clashing with Colter over legal limits. It’s character gold.
Teddi & Velma: The Underrated Duo
Their chemistry is fire. Their cases are often brushed off. Make them central to an episode, with Colter assisting them for a change. Flip the dynamic.
Data Proves Ensemble Works
What Successful Shows Are Doing Right
Let’s look at the numbers:
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Criminal Minds saw a 15% spike in viewer retention after switching to ensemble-focused episodes.
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Bones received more critical acclaim during seasons where supporting characters had rich subplots.
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Social media engagement rises when side characters have trending moments.
Tracker can ride that same wave — if it’s bold enough to pivot.
Strategic Suggestions for Season 3
1. Build Character-Centric Episodes
Let each team member own an episode. Not just help Colter — lead. Give them choices, consequences, and growth.
2. Create Real Conflict Within the Team
No team is perfect. Let’s see friction. Bobby vs. Reenie. Colter making a risky call that backfires. That’s what makes characters real.
3. Add Psychological Depth
Let’s go deeper into what makes them tick. Bobby’s past with cybercrime. Reenie’s personal trauma. Even Colter’s own guilt. Emotional arcs keep audiences invested.
4. Rotate the Spotlight
Even Colter could use a breather. Rotate lead roles occasionally — it worked for The Mandalorian, The Witcher, and Breaking Bad. Elevate the ensemble, and the show elevates with it.
Real Fans Want This Shift
Social Media Speaks
Reddit threads, fan pages, and Twitter (now X) are buzzing with fan theories about the underused team members. People want backstory. They want connection. They want a reason to root beyond just Colter.
What If Season 3 Doesn’t Reassess the Team?
Risk of Repetition
If Season 3 sticks to the same lone-wolf formula, fans may check out. The novelty fades. Plotlines feel recycled. The stakes feel hollow.
A Hollow Hero is a Lonely One
No one climbs a mountain alone. Colter’s depth will be richer when we see how he affects — and is affected by — those around him.
Imagine This: A Season 3 Episode Blueprint
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Opening: Reenie discovers a cold case tied to a personal trauma.
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Midpoint: Bobby breaks protocol to access hidden files.
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Twist: Teddi and Velma find out someone’s following Colter.
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Climax: The whole team has to come together in person for the first time.
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Resolution: Colter realizes he doesn’t just need help — he wants it.
Wouldn’t you watch that?
Conclusion: A Stronger Team Means a Stronger Show
If Tracker truly wants to evolve, it has to think beyond Colter Shaw. There’s gold in his supporting cast — all it needs is a spotlight. Season 3 could be the shift fans didn’t know they needed but won’t stop talking about once they get it.
By reassessing the team dynamic, Tracker can unlock deeper storytelling, emotional resonance, and long-term success. Colter is the spark — but the team? That’s the fire.
FAQs
1. Why hasn’t the show focused more on Colter’s team so far?
The show initially centered on Colter’s solo missions, but now fans are craving deeper dynamics. There’s growing demand for ensemble storytelling.
2. Who is the most underused character in Tracker?
Bobby Exley — hands down. He has the skills and screen presence to carry his own subplot, yet he’s stuck behind a laptop most of the time.
3. Will Season 3 bring more team-centric episodes?
Nothing’s confirmed, but early buzz hints at deeper arcs for side characters. The writers seem to be listening to fan feedback.
4. Is Colter Shaw based on a book character?
Yes! He’s based on the character from Jeffery Deaver’s novel The Never Game. The show adds its own twists but keeps the spirit of the source.
5. How can fans help push for change in the show’s focus?
Engage on social media, start fan petitions, and comment on official posts. Studios pay attention when fans speak loudly — and consistently.
