Budget cuts hit home as the fall finale sets the stage for a painful goodbye — is Engine 51’s fate sealed?

Engine 51 on the Chopping Block

As Chicago Fire season 14 heads toward its winter premiere, one storyline has fans holding their breath — and it doesn’t involve flames.

Yes, Severide and Van Meter were left trapped in a burning apartment in the explosive fall finale. But it’s the second cliffhanger that may change Firehouse 51 forever: Engine Company 51 is on the shortlist for decommissioning. And with that, Lieutenant Randall “Mouch” McHolland’s place in the firehouse is now uncertain.

Mouch’s Career at Risk?

While the Chicago Fire Department hasn’t confirmed layoffs, the writing is on the wall. Budget cuts are ripping through the city’s stations — and so far, Firehouse 51 has avoided the worst of it. That could soon change.

Chief Pascal was told directly by the Mayor’s Chief of Staff that Engine 51 was being considered for permanent shutdown. And with Mouch now a lieutenant, he may be forced to choose: accept reassignment, or give up the role he worked so hard to earn in season 13.

What Could Happen Next?

There are a few ways this could play out:

1. Mouch could leave 51 and take his lieutenant rank elsewhere — staying on the show but stepping away from the firehouse that made him a fan favorite.

2. Engine 51 could survive, thanks to last-minute intervention from Pascal or CFD leadership.

3. Mouch could accept a demotion to stay, though after last season’s journey, that would feel like a major step backward.

Of the three, the second option is the most hopeful — but the first is the most likely if the show wants to explore how deeply the cuts are affecting the team.

What Would It Mean for 51?

Losing Mouch wouldn’t just be a staffing change — it would fracture the heart of Firehouse 51. He’s more than a firefighter. He’s a mentor, a symbol of legacy, and a connection to the show’s early seasons. Watching him walk away would mark a major shift for the series.

Still, if Chicago Fire chooses to send Mouch into a new chapter, it could offer rich character growth and fresh dynamics. A new station, new challenges — but the same Mouch we’ve grown to love.