BREAKING: Buccaneers Reach Deal with DT Vita Vea on Extension
Newsweek · C · trust 37/100
0 Share Newsweek is a Trust Project member See more of our trusted coverage when you search. Prefer Newsweek on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers ' primary offseason noise has concerned the future of two-time Pro Bowler and behemoth nose tackle Vita Vea.
Vea had previously requested a trade from South Florida, as he looked to improve upon his four-year, $71 million contract – of which he was in the final year – as he enters what is likely the twilight of his playing career.
The Bucs had little interest in moving off their star DT, and have instead signed him to a one-year, $30 million extension that will keep him in Tampa Bay through the 2027 season.
"ESPN sources: Two-time Pro-Bowl DT Vita Vea and the Buccaneers reached agreement today on a one-year extension for $30 million, tying him to Tampa Bay for two more seasons. He gets $6 million in new money this season. Talks between Vea’s agent Collin Roberts of @excelfootball and the Buccaneers heated up Tuesday night and resulted in the agreement today." Schefter reported on Wednesday.
Aged 31, and going into what will be his 9th season in professional football, the former Washington product was looking to maximize his career earnings before his looming retirement that will likely come within the next few seasons.
Vea has consistently proven himself to be one of, if not the best nose tackle in the game, and along with Bengals DT Dexter Lawrence, he is one of the few elite run stoppers with true pass rush upside, having produce 35 over the course of his career, including seven back in 2024, his most recent Pro Bowl year.
Vea was also instrumental in the Bucs' Super Bowl championship run back in 2020/21, where Tampa Bay's defensive line completely overpowered the Kansas City Chiefs and Patrick Mahomes.
At $30 million for his extension, his new deal is a far cry from the record-setting contracts of Jalen Carter – who will earn $38 million per year – and Quinnen Williams & Jeffery Simmons who are set to earn $35 million APY apiece.
Vea will earn $48 million over the next two seasons; a $6 million pay bump from $18 million to $24 million in 2026 and $24 million in 2027.
Read the original at Newsweek →
Open in TruthVane →