Season 14 of Chicago Fire is already turning up the heat — not just with its daring rescues, but with the growing uncertainty inside Firehouse 51. With Battalion Chief Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney) facing mounting political and personal pressure, his future looks far from secure. And if his time as chief comes to an end, there’s one man ready to take the reins: Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney).
A Leadership Shake-Up on the Horizon
Budget cuts are hitting the Chicago Fire Department hard. Fewer rigs, fewer ambulances, and an impending reduction of battalion chiefs have every firehouse bracing for impact. While Pascal initially believed his position was safe, recent developments — including a tense interaction with the mayor’s office — suggest he could soon be out of luck.
When Pascal turned down an invitation from the mayor’s chief of staff, Annette Davis, the rejection may have put a target on his back. If politics plays its usual role, the fallout could be swift and unforgiving.
Why Severide Is the Natural Successor
Should Pascal’s job come under fire, Kelly Severide stands as the clear successor. From day one, Severide has embodied the courage, instinct, and loyalty that define Firehouse 51. He’s been the backbone of Squad 3, a mentor to countless firefighters, and a steady force during the firehouse’s darkest hours.
Over the years, Severide’s evolution from hotheaded lieutenant to composed and strategic leader has mirrored the growth of the series itself. With Chief Boden’s (Eamonn Walker) departure still fresh in viewers’ minds, Severide stepping into the battalion chief role would feel like a natural, earned transition — a new chapter for both the character and the firehouse.
Severide and Pascal: A Story of Mutual Respect
What makes this potential handoff even more meaningful is the relationship between Severide and Pascal. Initially at odds due to their contrasting leadership styles — Severide’s instinct versus Pascal’s caution — the two have since forged a strong bond built on respect.
Their teamwork on arson cases and difficult rescues has showcased a mentorship dynamic that could make Pascal’s possible exit both emotional and impactful. If he’s forced out, Severide’s promotion would carry genuine weight, symbolizing how far both men have come.
Herrmann’s Next Move
Any shake-up at the top inevitably reshapes the entire firehouse. For Christopher Herrmann (David Eigenberg), that could mean another career pivot. Having recently stepped away from his lieutenant role on Engine 51, Herrmann has struggled with the quieter pace of life.
Placing him in charge of Squad 3 after Severide’s promotion would make narrative sense — keeping him active on the front lines while restoring his sense of purpose. It would also reunite the firehouse’s most experienced veterans in positions of strength, ensuring Firehouse 51 remains as tight-knit as ever.
A New Era for Firehouse 51
If the rumors prove true, Chicago Fire Season 14 may be laying the groundwork for its next generation of leadership. Severide’s ascension would not only honor the firehouse’s legacy but also highlight his long-overdue growth into a commanding presence.
Still, nothing in Chicago Fire comes without complications. Politics, danger, and loyalty will all collide before the season’s end. But if Pascal does depart, Kelly Severide’s rise to chief feels inevitable — and richly deserved.
