Although there's still uncertainty surrounding NCIS season 18, we know that it is officially happening on CBS. A lot of stories are coming once the series returns to the small screen, with most of the characters having exciting storylines. Their interactions with each other are also becoming more interesting.

Most characters have developed friendships, and we have seen them working together to solve a case and save the day. In NCIS season 18, it would be interesting to see some pairings teaming up for a particular mission. This is also a way to further expand the relationships of the characters.

McGee and Bishop could team up entering the new season, given that their nerdy friendship is endearing. Perhaps, they could confide important information with one another. Bishop could also ask McGee for some advice regarding Torres or other things in her life.

Meanwhile, the dynamic between Gibbs and Vance is also fascinating. Vance knows that Gibbs could work well on his own. However, there are politics and protocols associated with the job that the situation somehow complicated.

In NCIS season 18, the two could team up together, wherein Gibbs finds himself being in Vance's position and vice-versa. Another interesting pairing is Torres and Palmer since the two are different in a lot of ways. But despite that, there are exceptional at whatever they do.

Lastly, Sloane and Kasie could also work together, given that we haven't seen that much of in the series. These women are doing their important roles, but they don't get credit for their efforts most of the time. Perhaps, we could see them in the spotlight in the new season and they'll be both recognized.

As for the official release date of NCIS season 18, nothing is certain as of yet. While the fall premiere is feasible, the current health crisis in California is one of the major things to be considered. Filming depends on the situation, as cast and crew could resume filming when things get better.

The series usually drops its new episodes in September and will run until May with some breaks in between. However, that won't be followed this time around, as the show has been off-air since April. And because of the filming challenges, we could likely expect NCIS season 18 arriving at a later date.

But even though there is a delay, it looks like the ratings remain steady. After all, the series has been running for many years on CBS. The delay won't likely impact the ratings since the series already has loyal viewers who are interesting and eager it watching it.