“Pledges,” this week’s FBI tackled campus unrest and drug rings, offering a fairly standard procedural case elevated by Jubal Valentine’s personal entanglement in the unfolding chaos. When a student protest over refugee housing turns deadly, the team finds itself facing a web of suspects, from disgruntled military veterans to a dangerous drug operation operating within the university.
The victim, Jacob Aquino, initially seems to be a casualty of the riot, but the FBI, led by Special Agent Isobel Castille, swiftly uncovers a more complicated narrative. Meanwhile, Jubal’s son, Tyler, gets caught up in the protest, creating a bit of personal tension to Jubal’s professional obligations. While Jubal prioritizes the safety of the students and the integrity of the investigation, it’s clear Tyler’s situation weighs heavily on his mind, leading to some questionable decisions.
The initial investigation focuses on several possible suspects within the university community, but a drug ring makes the most sense. This thread leads the team to Jacob’s fraternity brother, Freddy, who is apprehended with a substantial amount of cocaine. Freddy agrees to cooperate, pointing the FBI toward his suppliers, the Becceras brothers. This cooperation comes at a price when the Becceras brothers take Freddy’s friend Alistair hostage.
As the NYPD gets involved, a large-scale drug bust ensues, leading to a tense standoff with the Becceras brothers. Amid this chaos, Jubal pulls some strings to get Tyler released from custody, a decision that carries potential professional consequences. However, the resolution of the hostage situation and the takedown of the drug ring don’t provide the full picture. In a predictable twist, Freddy is revealed as Jacob’s killer, silencing him to protect the drug operation.
FBI airs Tuesdays at 8/7c on CBS.
