A familiar face is returning to the Chicago P.D. set. This time behind the camera. Jesse Lee Soffer is set to direct the second episode of Season 14, according to a social media post from actor Ethan Smith. The timing has already sparked speculation that Soffer could play a key role in the upcoming departure of longtime cast member LaRoyce Hawkins.
As previously reported, Hawkins will leave Chicago P.D. early in the new season after 13 seasons as Officer Kevin Atwater. While NBC has not confirmed exactly when his final episode will air, reports indicate that Hawkins will appear in several episodes so the series can give Atwater a proper on-screen send-off.
Another episode directed by Jesse Lee Soffer 📸 by ethanasmithh. Let’s freaking goooooo pic.twitter.com/vcjGY401YT
— Marloes 💫 (@Dutchie0325) August 5, 2026
ALSO READ:
LaRoyce Hawkins returns to Chicago P.D. for final episodes
That makes Soffer’s assignment especially noteworthy.
NBC followed a similar approach last season with Daniel Kyri’s departure from Chicago Fire. Kyri returned at the beginning of the season to conclude Darren Ritter’s storyline, with the character making his final appearance in Episode 2.
Should Chicago P.D. follow the same pattern, Hawkins’ farewell could also arrive in the second episode—placing Soffer in the director’s chair for Atwater’s final chapter.
Nothing has been officially confirmed, but the possibility would carry significant emotional weight.
Soffer starred as Detective Jay Halstead from the show’s 2014 debut until his departure during Season 10. He worked alongside Hawkins for years and understands the experience of saying goodbye to a character and cast that have shaped a major portion of an actor’s career.
Atwater’s exit is expected to be one of the most significant departures in the series’ history. The character has been part of Intelligence since the beginning and has become one of the franchise’s most enduring and meaningful figures.
Having Soffer direct Hawkins’ final episode could soften the blow for longtime viewers while giving the farewell added personal significance behind the scenes.
Soffer has continued his relationship with Chicago P.D. since leaving the cast, moving into directing and previously helming three episodes of the series. His Season 14 assignment will mark his fourth episode as a director.
Production on Episode 2 appears to be underway, and fans will likely be watching closely for behind-the-scenes clues about whether the installment will indeed serve as Hawkins’ final appearance.
Regardless of where Atwater’s exit ultimately falls, Soffer’s return gives the new season another meaningful connection to the show’s past.
Chicago P.D. Season 14 premieres Wednesday, October 7, at 10 p.m. on NBC. Fansided reported this first.
