Vita Vea remains one of the NFL’s most dominant defensive tackles, but the veteran Tampa Bay Buccaneers star is making headlines for more than his on-field production. Entering the 2026 season, Vea has officially requested a trade after contract extension negotiations stalled, putting his future with the Buccaneers into question.
Here’s everything to know about Vita Vea, including his trade request, contract, career stats, age, PFF performance, and NFL Draft journey.
Who is Vita Vea?
Vita Vea, whose full name is Tevita Tuliʻakiono Tuipulotu Mosese Vahae Fehoko Faletau Vea, is one of the league’s premier nose tackles. Since joining the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2018, he has become the centerpiece of one of the NFL’s strongest run defenses.
Known for his rare blend of size, strength, and athleticism, Vea has played a major role in Tampa Bay’s success, including helping the franchise win Super Bowl LV.
Vita Vea Age
Vita Vea was born on February 5, 1995, making him 31 years old during the 2026 NFL season. Despite entering his ninth NFL campaign, he continues to perform at an elite level as one of football’s best interior defensive linemen.
Vita Vea Trade Request
The biggest storyline surrounding Vea is his trade request.
According to multiple reports, the two-time Pro Bowler formally requested a trade after contract extension talks with Tampa Bay failed to produce an agreement before training camp. His agent confirmed the request shortly before veterans reported to camp.
Vea is entering the final year of his current contract, and none of his 2026 base salary is guaranteed. During offseason workouts, he attended mandatory minicamp but did not participate in on-field drills while seeking a new deal.
The Buccaneers must now decide whether to:
- Sign Vea to a long-term extension
- Trade him before the season
- Allow him to play out his contract
The situation is expected to be one of the NFL’s biggest contract stories heading into the regular season.
Vita Vea Contract
Vea signed a four-year, $71 million contract extension with Tampa Bay in 2022.
For the 2026 season:
- Contract Year: Final season
- Base Salary: $17 million
- Guaranteed Money Remaining: None
- Additional Incentives: Up to $1 million in roster bonuses
Because his remaining salary is not guaranteed, Vea has pushed for long-term security, leading to the current contract dispute.
Vita Vea Stats
Through eight NFL seasons, Vea has established himself among the league’s most productive interior defenders.
Career NFL Stats
- Games Played: 116+
- Total Tackles: 256
- Sacks: 35
- Forced Fumbles: 3
- Fumble Recoveries: 3
- Pass Deflections: 9
- Pro Bowls: 2
- Super Bowl Championships: 1
During the 2025 season, Vea started all 17 games and recorded:
- 34 tackles
- 4.5 sacks
- 13 quarterback hits
His ability to collapse the pocket while dominating against the run continues to make him one of football’s most valuable defensive tackles.
Vita Vea PFF Performance
Vita Vea has consistently ranked among Pro Football Focus (PFF)‘s highest-graded interior defensive linemen thanks to his elite run-stopping ability and improving pass rush.
Although individual weekly grades vary, PFF has regularly praised him for:
- Elite run defense
- Interior pass-rushing pressure
- Double-team success
- Ability to occupy blockers and create opportunities for teammates
His combination of power and athleticism has made him one of the NFL’s most respected defensive tackles over the past several seasons.
Vita Vea Draft
Vea entered the NFL after starring at the University of Washington.
Draft Profile
- College: Washington
- NFL Draft: 2018
- Round: 1
- Overall Pick: 12
- Drafted By: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Coming out of college, Vea was widely regarded as one of the top defensive prospects after winning Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year honors.
What Happens Next?
Whether Vita Vea remains in Tampa Bay could depend on how quickly negotiations resume.
The Buccaneers still view him as a cornerstone of their defense, but his trade request creates uncertainty just before the start of the season. Several NFL teams needing help on the defensive line could express interest if Tampa Bay becomes willing to negotiate.
Final Thoughts
Vita Vea has built a reputation as one of the NFL’s premier defensive tackles through dominant run defense, consistent pass-rushing production, and leadership on Tampa Bay’s defensive front. However, his contract situation has become one of the league’s biggest storylines after officially requesting a trade. Whether the Buccaneers extend their star defender or explore trade options will be one of the most closely watched developments heading into the 2026 NFL season.
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