Two-time Pro Bowl DT Vita Vea requests trade from Buccaneers
Two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Vita Vea has officially requested a trade from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This decision follows stalled negotiations regarding a contract extension for the veteran player. Vea is entering the final year of his current four-year deal and is slated to earn 17 million dollars this season with no guaranteed money.
The 31-year-old defensive force was a hold-in at mandatory minicamp last month due to these unresolved contract terms. Coach Todd Bowles previously characterized the situation as a standard business matter at the time. Despite the uncertainty, Vea maintained his role on the defensive line last season by starting all 17 games and recording 4.5 sacks.
Vea holds a significant place in the organization since being drafted 12th overall in 2018. Over his eight-season tenure, he has accumulated 35 sacks and earned Pro Bowl selections in 2021 and 2024. The timing of this trade request coincides with the start of training camp for the team.
Quarterback Baker Mayfield also remains in a similar contract situation as he enters the final year of his deal. Mayfield stated previously that negotiations were not close to a resolution but chose to participate in team activities while the situation remains fluid. The organization now faces the challenge of managing contract extensions for key leaders on both sides of the ball as the regular season approaches.