‘NCIS’ Season 24 Episode 3 Release Date, Time and Where to Watch Online

For more than twenty years, CBS has held a dominant position in primetime broadcast television with its flagship procedural series, ‘NCIS’. As the franchise embarks on the exciting journey of fall 2026, anticipation for ‘NCIS’ season 24 episode 3 has intensified following significant changes at the Washington Navy Yard. The long-standing crime drama continues to showcase its cultural relevance, adapting its ensemble dynamics after notable character shifts.

CBS has transformed Tuesday nights into a dedicated franchise night, pairing the original series with ‘NCIS: New York’ and ‘NCIS: Origins’. This cohesive programming strategy keeps audiences engaged in high-stakes military investigations while delving into rich character histories that span generations of law enforcement. Thus, the third episode of the twenty-fourth season marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing narrative.

Fans eager to mark their calendars will be pleased to know that ‘NCIS’ season 24 episode 3, titled ‘Sleeping Dogs’, is set to air on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. This 60-minute episode will maintain the series’ regular timeslot at 8:00 PM ET/PT on CBS, kicking off the network’s three-hour procedural lineup before seamlessly transitioning into its spinoffs.

Viewers have multiple options for watching the new episode when it premieres. Those with cable subscriptions, satellite packages, or digital antennas can tune into their local CBS affiliates at 8:00 PM ET/PT. Additionally, live streaming services like Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV will carry the broadcast in real time.

For those who prefer streaming, Paramount+ serves as the primary digital platform for the expansive naval investigative universe. Subscribers to the Paramount+ Premium tier can stream the episode live via their local CBS feed as it airs. Meanwhile, standard Paramount+ Essential subscribers can watch ‘Sleeping Dogs’ on demand starting the following morning, Wednesday, October 21, 2026.

Directed by José Clemente Hernandez and penned by Marco Schnabel, ‘Sleeping Dogs’ focuses on Special Agent Nick Torres, portrayed by Wilmer Valderrama. The plot thickens when a retired undercover identity from Torres’ past resurfaces, leading to a series of cold-blooded murders. As he confronts the ghosts of his former life, Torres must face the dangerous persona he believed he had left behind.

To unravel the escalating case, Torres must reconnect with his former mentor, Walt Keller, played by guest star Mike O’Malley. This dynamic mirrors the historic mentor-mentee relationship between Leroy Jethro Gibbs and Mike Franks, adding new depth to Torres’ decade-long journey with the team. Showrunner Steven D. Binder highlighted Keller’s unpredictable nature, noting that he is “not the most by-the-book guy” and hinted that “potentially he’s going to get Torres involved in some undercover work down the road,” as reported by ScreenRant.

The personal challenges facing Torres unfold amid significant institutional changes at headquarters following Director Leon Vance’s departure during the 500th episode. Michael Weatherly’s much-anticipated return as Tony DiNozzo has notably shifted the bullpen dynamic, placing the seasoned investigator in a leadership role. Balancing administrative duties with his signature humor, DiNozzo’s new position injects fresh energy into veteran agents Alden Parker, Timothy McGee, and Jessica Knight.

This nostalgic yet transformative shift in leadership has been embraced by the executive team, emphasizing how DiNozzo’s presence balances legacy with current storytelling. Showrunner Steven D. Binder remarked that “having Michael Weatherly back in the NCIS family is one of those things a writer can only dream about.” He noted that “Tony DiNozzo has always had a way of changing the temperature of every scene he’s in, and watching the newer members of the team encounter the legend they’ve only heard stories about is exactly as fun as it sounds.”

As Torres navigates the shadows alongside Keller, the team’s loyalty and investigative skills will be tested like never before. With personal conflicts intertwining with perilous undercover operations, ‘Sleeping Dogs’ is set to be one of the most psychologically intense episodes of the fall season. Viewers should prepare for revelations that could impact the squad for weeks to come.

Share your thoughts and predictions for Nick Torres and his former handler in ‘NCIS’ season 24 by leaving a comment below!