Firehouse 51 Faces Major Changes
Season 14 of Chicago Fire is ushering in a wave of departures — but also, a fresh start. With Sam Carver (Jake Lockett) transferring to Denver and Jack Damon (Michael Bradway) leaving under mysterious circumstances, fans were worried about what these exits might mean for the future of Firehouse 51.
Thankfully, a new face is already stepping up to fill the void. Brandon Larracuente has joined the cast as Sal Vasquez, and from what we’ve seen so far, he’s shaping up to be Damon’s natural successor — both behind the wheel and in spirit.
Meet Sal Vasquez
A firefighter with a lot to prove, Vasquez joins the team under Stella Kidd’s (Miranda Rae Mayo) command on Truck 81. He’ll officially take over as the new driver, replacing Carver, but personality-wise, he’s far closer to Damon than anyone expected.
Larracuente, known for roles in 13 Reasons Why, Bloodline, and The Good Doctor, has already made an impression on fans — and according to the cast, his chemistry with the crew has been seamless.
“It definitely feels like a family,” Larracuente told NBC Insider. “They keep it light on set, but when it’s time to work, they show up prepared. I couldn’t ask for anything else.”
Damon 2.0?
On paper, Vasquez might be Carver’s replacement. But in tone, attitude, and tension, he’s Damon all over again.
Like Severide’s half-brother, Vasquez has a cocky edge and a tendency to push authority — especially when it comes to Lieutenant Kidd. In a Season 14 teaser, Miranda Rae Mayo revealed that Kidd will have a hard time managing her newest recruit.
“Kidd is annoyed by the cockiness that Vasquez portrays,” Mayo teased, hinting that his confidence might border on arrogance.
Vasquez also shares Damon’s reckless streak and will reportedly form a bond with Lizzie Novak (Jocelyn Hudon), who famously had a fling with Damon last season. Add to that a family background in first response, and it’s clear that Vasquez is being written as Damon’s spiritual successor — a young, impulsive firefighter with something to prove.
What This Means for Season 14
With Vasquez stirring things up and tensions already rising at Firehouse 51, Season 14 promises a perfect mix of fresh energy and familiar chaos. His dynamic with Kidd, Novak, and Severide will be central to early episodes — and may determine whether he becomes a trusted part of the family or the next firefighter to flame out.
Chicago Fire showrunner Andrea Newman teased that the season will center on “shake-ups and new beginnings,” and Vasquez’s arrival fits that perfectly.
When to Watch
Season 14 of Chicago Fire airs Wednesdays at 9/8c on NBC, with episodes available the next day on Peacock.
Don’t miss the next episode, “Primary Search,” as Vasquez continues to prove himself — and push Kidd’s patience to its limit.
