: The episode guest stars Zane Holtz as Agent Sawyer, continuing a "frenemy" dynamic with Torres that fans of the actors' previous work together (e.g., From Dusk Til Dawn: The Series ) noted as a highlight.

'NCIS' recap: Torres works through his feelings with his fists

: By the end of the episode, a confrontation with McGee forces Torres to admit his feelings of loneliness. This moment serves as a turning point, suggesting he may finally be ready to accept his new teammates as a surrogate family. Themes and Production

The core of " Fight or Flight " is Nick Torres’ psychological state. Following Gibbs' retirement to Alaska and the earlier departure of Ellie Bishop, Torres feels abandoned.