I feel like I need to write like a. Twenty-page essay (and maybe will) to scream from the roof tops at this fandom that
NO.
Eddie doesn't need to realise that he is queer.
He doesn't need to realise that he's in love with Buck.
He doesn't need to work on finding self-acceptance.
Because HE'S ALREADY THERE.
He's been running towards that finish line all along.
He's just so fast and so good at disguising himself that he is practically invisible at times. Blink, and you miss an important moment.
And he's been having a fuckload of them.
Eddie doesn't need to open his eyes.
He really is the FASTEST RUNNER. He is now more self-aware than Buck is.
Buck is still oblivious to his feelings, Eddie is not.
We see Eddie run from the angry mob of bees without getting a single sting.
While episodes later, Buck is googling dead cowboys with something on his face.
That looks... Wouldn't you say.
Kinda like bee stings.
So it's no coincidence that Eddie was shown having a dancing party.
And holding a trophy!!
Seriously.
Eddie's fucking speeeeed, has always been, and people keep missing it.
No, Eddie isn't the one who needs to open his eyes, to realise who's that dude staring at him in the mirror.