Tampa Bay Buccaneers grapple with contract holdout amid NFL offseason

Defensive tackle Vita Vea, a two‑time Pro Bowler for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is missing minicamp and offseason workouts as he enters the final year of his four‑year, $71 million contract. Team officials say the holdout is linked to Vea’s desire for a new deal that reflects the rising market for top defensive tackles, now approaching $30 million.

Quarterback Baker Mayfield is also set to become a free agent after the 2026 season, adding further contract uncertainty for Tampa Bay. Across the league, teams are busy with roster decisions, extensions for high‑performing players, and strategic moves such as trades and free‑agent signings as they prepare for the upcoming season.