The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are expected to be one of the hottest free agency topics of the offseason, as it was reported that defensive tackle Vita Vea sought a trade after unsuccessful contract extension talks with the Buccaneers.
According to multiple reports, the two-time Pro Bowler informed the team that he would prefer to move on in search of a new team after the two sides couldn’t reach an agreement on a new long-term deal.
Although Tampa Bay hasn’t confirmed that a trade is imminent, the news immediately sparked rumors around the league about what team would be able to land the services of one of the best defensive tackles in the league.
Here’s why Vita Vea is a huge loss for the Buccaneers, why he requested a trade, and who he has the best chance to sign with.
A Big Loss for the Buccaneers
Vita Vea has been the cornerstone of the Buccaneers defense since he was selected in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft.
He has been one of the best run-stoppers in the league, and his ability to clog the middle of the offensive line has paved the way for the team to rack up yards on the ground and put together historic defensive performances like they did during their Super Bowl LV-winning campaign.
Vea’s production on the field has directly led to Tampa Bay’s defensive success, and he has done so while being one of the most durable defensive tackles in the league.
Having a player of this caliber on the roster for just one more season would definitely help the Buccaneers rebuild their defense.
Why Did Vita Vea Request a Trade?
According to reports, discussions of a contract extension between Vita Vea and the Buccaneers broke down after the two sides failed to reach an agreement on the financials of the deal.
Instead of playing another season in Tampa Bay with an impending trade, the defensive tackle has made it clear he’d prefer to move to another team that is willing to provide him with a long-term deal.
Additionally, multiple reports stated that Vita Vea would prefer to play somewhere on the West Coast, which narrows down the list of potential destinations.
Vea and the Buccaneers haven’t made public comments on the situation, and it is unknown what led to the breakdown of the proposed contract extension talks
Best Suited Destinations for Vita Vea
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers stand to benefit massively from obtaining the services of Vita Vea.
With defensive tackle being a position of need, adding a player of this caliber would allow them to bolster the run defense while also creating more one-on-one matchups along the offensive line.
Vea’s ability to draw double-teams would allow LA to exploit mismatches on the edges with their best edge defenders, which would lead to more pressure on the quarterback.
San Francisco 49ers
They have been one of the few teams with a sustainable defensive approach to the game, and adding a player of Vea’s caliber would only add to their defensive depth.
The duo of defensive tackles could lead to one of the league’s best defenses while allowing the team to be more physical against the run.
Seattle Seahawks
Adding Vita Vea would fill a big need for the Seahawks while also providing defensive continuity for the team.
The defensive tackle has the physicality to stop runners up the middle and create push, which would improve the run defense against divisional rivals. His leadership could also help the defense grow in the years to come.
Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders are looking to take the next step as a team, and adding a high-profile free agent like Vita Vea would do just that.
Having a dependable interior defensive tackle would immediately upgrade their defense, as he could fill the role as the focal point of their defensive line. The move would also be ideal for Vea, considering the Raiders are based in Las Vegas.
Where Would Vita Vea Sign With Now?
Although a trade request doesn’t necessarily mean the move will happen, the Buccaneers could look to trade Vita Vea if a deal can’t be reached in time to keep him in Tampa Bay.
The team can look to continue working with the defensive tackle to reach an agreement, but if no deal is reached, the Buccaneers will begin shopping him around, as they have a long list of interested teams.
A trade of this magnitude would require a hefty return of draft picks, mainly from teams that know they need an upgrade in the trenches. This move will most likely happen, and whoever acquires Vita Vea will have one of the best defenders in the league.
Vita Vea’s Request for a Trade Has Become One of the NFL’s Largest Storylines
The situation surrounding Vita Vea’s requested trade has become one of the NFL’s largest storylines of the offseason.
It is unclear whether the Buccaneers will grant his request or if a deal would be reached to keep him in Tampa Bay. Either way, the situation will be one of the most talked-about free agency stories of the year. If a trade does indeed happen, then whichever team acquires Vea will be able to upgrade their defense with one of the best defensive tackles in the league.
