There are actually two Derek Morgans in this episode. Shemar Moore (Derek Morgan), and the actor Derek Morgan (Captain Beau Hallendale). The actor Derek Morgan previously played a character named "Thomas Gibson" in the show For the People (2002). Thomas Gibson is the actor who plays Aaron Hotchner.
The song at the end, "There She Goes (Absent)" is performed by Gia Mantegna, daughter of Joe Mantegna (Rossi). Gia previously guest starred as a kidnap victim in 3rd Life (2008), and Montegna directed this episode.
The scene featuring former N.F.L. receiver Michael Irvin was inserted to help promote the NFL's "Play 60" campaign, intended to encourage children to play outside for at least an hour every day. Beyond that purpose, there's never an explanation for how Morgan knows the N.F.L. Hall of Fame wideout.
Though not yet included in the opening credits sequence, Dr. Tara Lewis voices her first opening quote.