After overcoming his PTSD from his tour in Afghanistan and getting his life together, Jack Ryan is suddenly promoted to Acting Deputy Director of Intelligence after Admiral Greer's unexpected health departure. His first task in his new position is to investigate the murder of a American billionaire friend of the President, whose severed head was discovered in the Potomac River. As he unravels the mystery, he uncovers connections to a Colombian drug cartel and CIA operations. With the help of field agent John Clark, Jack must traverse dangerous geopolitical intrigues and uncover the truth while questioning loyalties and motives within the agency.