Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Vita Vea has formally requested a trade amid stalled contract negotiations, according to multiple reports. The two-time Pro Bowl player, entering the final year of his four-year, $71 million deal, is seeking a new contract but has not reached an agreement with the team. Vea is set to earn $18 million in 2026, his final season under the current contract.
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay downplayed any potential interest in acquiring Vea, stating that the team is satisfied with its current defensive lineup. "He's a stud. I think that he is a great player that's always been a problem to game plan against, but I think we feel good about our group right now," McVay said on the 'Up & Adams' show. The Rams recently acquired Myles Garrett in a blockbuster trade and are also exploring a potential return for Aaron Donald, signaling a strong commitment to their defensive core.
Vea, a first-round pick in 2018, has been a cornerstone of the Buccaneers' defense, helping the team win Super Bowl LV in 2021. His departure would mark another significant loss for Tampa Bay, following the recent exits of Mike Evans and Lavonte David. The Buccaneers have not indicated whether they will grant Vea's trade request, but sources suggest they are unlikely to engage in a fire sale.
Baker Mayfield, the team's quarterback, remains in contract extension limbo, further complicating Tampa Bay's offseason. The Buccaneers finished the 2025 season with an 8-9 record, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2019. Vea's absence from spring practices raises questions about his future with the franchise, though he is expected to attend training camp.
Vea has been linked to several West Coast teams, including the San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Chargers, and Los Angeles Rams. However, McVay's comments suggest the Rams are not actively pursuing him. The 31-year-old has recorded 35 sacks and 256 tackles over his career, with his best sack season coming in 2024 (7 sacks).