As Chicago P.D. gears up for its highly anticipated Season 13, fans are buzzing with questions: who’s returning to Intelligence, who’s stepping away, and what major changes lie ahead for the Windy City’s finest? After years of twists, departures, and surprising returns, this upcoming season promises a mix of familiar faces, shocking exits, and a few newcomers who could shake up the dynamics in ways nobody saw coming.
Insiders confirm that while several fan-favorites are staying put, the cast will undergo notable adjustments. Some long-time members of Intelligence are expected to take a step back, either for storyline reasons or to accommodate actors’ personal schedules. Rumors suggest that a few pivotal characters may even exit early in the season, setting up dramatic arcs that could redefine leadership within the unit. For viewers, this raises immediate questions about who will fill those gaps — and how the remaining team members, including Burgess, Ruzek, and Atwater, will adjust to the changes.
Meanwhile, a handful of new faces are reportedly joining Intelligence, bringing fresh energy and new conflicts to the squad. Sources hint at “a skilled detective with a mysterious past” entering the team, someone whose motives may not be entirely clear at first. The introduction of this character could set up tension, alliances, and perhaps even rivalry, giving writers an opportunity to explore storylines that challenge both the veterans and the newcomers alike.
Jesse Lee Soffer, long regarded as a cornerstone of the series, is confirmed to remain a central figure, anchoring the unit through what promises to be a season full of upheaval. His presence is expected to provide continuity amid the shake-ups, ensuring that fans still have a familiar anchor as the show experiments with new relationships and plot twists. Similarly, Marina Squerciati is expected to maintain a significant role, though details of her character’s trajectory remain under wraps — leading to speculation about potential storylines involving promotion, personal dilemmas, or even temporary absences.
Season 13 also reportedly leans into high-stakes storylines that have repercussions beyond a single episode. From intense criminal investigations to internal conflicts within Intelligence, the show is set to challenge characters emotionally, morally, and professionally. Departures and arrivals will not only affect the team’s dynamics but could also influence the trajectory of larger multi-episode arcs, with some early leaks suggesting that a major character’s exit may coincide with the arrival of a surprising new ally or adversary.

Fans have already taken to social media, debating which exits will sting the most and which new additions have the potential to steal scenes. Online communities are alive with theories: some predict dramatic leadership changes, others anticipate romance entanglements, and a few suspect crossover appearances from other One Chicago series, potentially altering the balance of the team. One thing is certain — the mix of returning veterans and newcomers promises to inject fresh tension, intrigue, and unpredictability into Firehouse 21.
In short, Season 13 of Chicago P.D. is shaping up to be one of the most transformative yet. With strategic exits, carefully chosen additions, and storylines designed to test the limits of the team, the show is poised to challenge expectations while keeping fans engaged week after week. As the premiere approaches, the burning question remains: who will rise, who will fall, and who will redefine what it means to serve and protect in the Windy City?
The countdown has begun, and one thing is clear — whether you love the shake-ups or fear them, Chicago P.D. Season 13 promises a rollercoaster of drama, suspense, and unforgettable moments.