Bucs DT Vita Vea reportedly requests trade due to failed contract negotiations

Longtime Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Vita Vea has reportedly requested a trade from the franchise, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.

NFL Network's Mike Garofolo added that the trade request comes after failed contract negotiations. Vea reportedly wants to be traded to a California team or the Las Vegas Raiders.

Advertisement

Vea was the 12th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft by the Buccaneers. After playing out his rookie deal and fifth-year option, the DT signed a four-year, $71 million extension with Tampa Bay.

This is the last year of his current deal. While he is scheduled to make $18 million, Vea has been in talks with the franchise on an extension.

The veteran defensive tackle did not participate in the team's spring football program. Vea is reportedly at training camp with the Buccaneers, though his participation plans are unknown after he requested this trade.

Vea played in all 17 regular-season games last season. He had 34 total tackles, including 4.5 sacks and 13 quarterback hits. The DT is a two-time Pro Bowler and won Super Bowl LV with the Buccaneers.

Advertisement

The veteran defender is known for his imposing stature, but notably played the 2025 season slightly below his typical size. He was listed at 6-4, 347 pounds.

It is unclear what kind of extension or new contract the 31-year-old was looking for, but it sounds like his first choice was to end his career with Tampa Bay; now he is open to a fresh start.

Click here to read article