New NFL Rumors Update Vita Vea Bucs Contract, Trade Buzz Amid 2026 Preseason

There is reportedly still a chance star defensive tackle Vita Vea plays for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2026 despite requesting a trade earlier this offseason.

ESPN's Adam Schefter said Wednesday on the Pat McAfee Show that there has seemingly been a "shift" toward optimism that Vea will sign an extension in Tampa Bay.

"It feels like we've gone from Vita Vea wanting a trade to Vita Vea now wanting to try to get a deal done," Schefter said.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported Vea still "does not plan to step on the field in pads without a new contract."

Vea has been holding in during mandatory minicamp and training camp as he continues to seek a new contract.

"I think, eventually, the two sides figure it out," Schefter said. "I think they get something done, and I think Vita Vea stays in Tampa."

Vea has been present during training camp but not participating in drills. The Bucs are heading into Saturday's matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs with him still on the sideline.

"I'm never comfortable playing without him, but... I've played without him before," head coach Todd Bowles said when asked Tuesday about Bowles' potential absence from the game.

When asked if there was a point he expected Vea to resume participation, Bowles said Tuesday, "We'll probably talk next week. Right now, everything is ongoing."

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport first reported July 27 Vea had requested a trade after talks stalled on a long-term extension.

Vea is currently signed through 2026 season on a deal that ranks 17th among all defensive tackles, per Over the Cap.

Fowler reported shortly after the trade request Vea had drawn "pretty heavy" trade interest from other teams, although general manager Jason Licht has remained adamant that he has no plans of trading Vea.

The Buccaneers are set to play starters including quarterback Baker Mayfield, who is set to play this season on an expiring contract after failed extension talks of his own, this Saturday against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Should Vea remain out for that game, he will only have one more chance during an Aug. 28 preseason matchup at the Jacksonville Jaguars to see game action with his team before the Bucs kick off the regular season Sept. 13 at the Cincinnati Bengals.