
Warning! Spoilers ahead for FBI Season 7, Episode 8, “Riptide.”
The recent death of Clay (Guy Lockard) in FBI, specifically in Season 7, Episode 8, is poised to have profound implications for the remainder of the season. Clay, introduced as OA’s old friend and a fellow Army Ranger, initially appeared to be a trusted ally. However, as the narrative unfolded, it became clear that he had ulterior motives. His request to OA and Gemma to share a meal quickly escalated when he enlisted OA’s help to secretly place a listening device, a choice that hinted at the trouble ahead.
OA’s compliance with Clay’s demands suggested an impending crisis, especially after OA confided in Isobel about receiving case-related information from Clay. Consequently, Isobel (Alanza De la Garza) elevated Clay to the status of a confidential informant while warning OA against future secrecy. This chain of events culminated in a tragic confrontation where OA was forced to shoot Clay, who had become involved in a deadly gold heist.
1 Clay’s Death May Bring OA & Maggie Closer Together
OA May Be Required to End His Relationship with Gemma

In this time of crisis, OA (Zeeko Zaki) is likely to turn to Maggie (Missy Peregrym), who has always been his close confidante, especially given the traumatic nature of Clay’s death. OA has already shared with Maggie how Clay had broken protocol to save him during their time in a Taliban POW camp, suggesting that their bond will deepen as he copes with his grief.
Given the emotional turmoil stemming from the incident, OA might isolate himself from others, including his girlfriend Gemma (Comfort Clinton).Their relationship, which has faced challenges before, could become strained further as OA finds solace in Maggie. This dynamic could lead to a significant rift between OA and Gemma, raising the likelihood of their breakup.
2 Clay’s Connections Might Seek Revenge
Clay Had Ties to a Network of Criminals

Clay’s death may not go unanswered, as he was likely linked to other individuals with dubious morals. Friends of Clay, who felt indebted to him for their lives, might band together to exact revenge, potentially targeting OA, Maggie, or even innocent bystanders they perceive as complicit in his demise.
This impending threat poses a serious risk to OA and those close to him, creating a new layer of danger given that these connections likely harbor no respect for the FBI—making them formidable adversaries.
3 OA Faces Potential Legal Complications from the Shooting
Although Justified, OA’s Action May Lead to Trouble

Despite OA’s attempts to defuse the situation and his reluctance to shoot Clay, the FBI may initiate an internal investigation to ensure protocol was followed. This procedural scrutiny comes on the heels of Jubal’s recent pressuring of the NYPD, raising questions of legal ramifications for agents involved in contentious scenarios.
Even though OA’s actions were justified, he may grapple with self-doubt, questioning whether he could have resolved the situation differently, further complicating his emotional state following the incident.
4 Uncovering Clay’s Underhanded Activities Could Complicate Cases
Clay’s Shady Connections May Compromise OA and Fellow Agents

OA’s involvement with Clay’s illicit activities poses a significant risk, especially if the investigation into Clay’s death unveils further questionable dealings. As OA looks back on his actions, he may recognize the potential jeopardy he and other agents face should their involvement with Clay be exposed.
This could lead to complex legal challenges, jeopardizing not only OA’s career but also implicating others who had service ties with Clay, thus making future investigations fraught with complications.
5 OA’s Functionality May Decline Following Clay’s Demise
This Incident Might Trigger PTSD Symptoms

Having battled PTSD since the start of the series, OA has traditionally excelled at compartmentalizing his trauma to focus on the task at hand. Nevertheless, the gravity of shooting an old friend may cause his mental health to deteriorate.
As we move into Season 7, Episode 9, the audience is left to ponder whether OA can reclaim his usual capabilities. The incident could challenge his intuition and mental resilience, especially as he reflects on the red flags he ignored in Clay’s character.
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