Vita Vea has asked the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to trade him, according to the Tampa Bay Times. The request comes after contract extension negotiations between the defensive tackle and the team did not result in a new deal.
The two-time Pro Bowl selection made the request public on Tuesday, the Tampa Bay Times reported. ESPN also reported the trade request, citing the breakdown in extension talks as the reason. CBS Sports noted that the failed contract extension discussions prompted Vea's decision.
Vea has been a key part of the Buccaneers' defensive line since the team selected him with the 12th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. He has started 93 games over seven seasons, recording 28 sacks and 243 tackles. His size and power have made him one of the league's most disruptive interior defenders, earning him Pro Bowl honors in 2021 and 2022.
The Buccaneers now face the decision of whether to grant Vea's request or attempt to resolve the contract impasse. Yahoo Sports reported that the trade request has already generated interest from other teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers.
What to watch next: Which teams will emerge as frontrunners for Vea's services as the Buccaneers weigh their options.
