Season 23 Episode 15 saw NCIS experiment with a mystery structure reminiscent of The Da Vinci Code, combining coded clues, historical secrets, and rare dinosaur bones into a puzzle-style investigation. The adventure tone was further reinforced by playful nods to Indiana Jones, adding a lighter pop-culture layer to the story.
The installment also offered a welcome opportunity to explore Knight’s character in greater detail. Her personal interests and childhood memories added warmth and depth to the team dynamic, suggesting she could benefit from a larger spotlight in future episodes.
Despite its creative setup, the case ultimately followed a predictable trajectory. The reveal of a family member as the killer echoed a familiar NCIS pattern. While the episode’s message about returning stolen cultural items to their rightful owners carried emotional significance, the overall mystery lacked the impact needed to make the hour truly stand out.