Buccaneers agree to one-year extension with 2-time Pro Bowl DT

Vita Vea will remain in Tampa Bay for $30 million.

The veteran NFL defensive tackle entered the offseason with one year remaining in his previous contract. He wanted a new deal that reflected his value. The Buccaneers eventually delivered.

MORE: Possible Vita Vea NFL trade could be delayed after latest news

Vear has built a reputation as one of NFL’s most disruptive interior defenders. At 6-foot-4 and 347 pounds, he can collapse the middle of an offensive line. His power forces offenses to account for him on nearly every snap. That attention creates opportunities for Tampa Bay’s other edge rushers and linebackers.

After weeks of trade speculation, the franchise can turn their attention back to football. The Buccaneers now have their defensive anchor back under contract.

His presence does more than fill a stat sheet. Vea remains a cornerstone of Tampa Bay’s defense.

A summary of Vita Vea’s NFL career

Vea is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the Buccaneers’ defense.

Tampa Bay selected him as their 12th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. He quickly became a centerpiece of the defense. Vea also helped the Buccaneers win the 2021 Super Bowl.

Tampa Bay’s defensive tackle has since earned two Pro Bowl selections, including his most recent nod in 2024. He recorded a career-high seven sacks that season. Last year, Vea started all 17 games, finishing with 34 total tackles, 4.5 sacks and 16 solo efforts.

However, those numbers do not tell the entire story.

Vea creates problems for offensive lines in almost every snap. His size and power alone occupy multiple blockers. That pressure gives Tampa Bay opportunities to make smart, quick plays.

His 2025 campaign added another solid chapter to an already impressive career. Vea has now played 112 NFL regular-season games. He has recorded 154 solo tackles and 35 sacks, along with three forced fumbles.

With his extended stay in Tampa Bay, Vea continues to bring experience, power and consistency to a defense that needs all three.

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