Buccaneers GM says Vita Vea will stay, Baker Mayfield remains franchise quarterback

Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht said the team has no plans to trade Pro Bowl nose tackle Vita Vea, despite recent speculation. Licht noted that Vea is participating in classroom sessions and observing practices while recovering from a back injury sustained during a conditioning test on July 28, and the organization hopes he will be ready to play this season.

Licht acknowledged that other clubs have expressed interest in Vea, but described such inquiries as routine for the offseason. He added that the relationship with Vea is “salvageable” and that the player could remain with the Buccaneers beyond his 2026 contract.

Regarding quarterback Baker Mayfield, Licht declined to explain the two-year contract offered to the former first-overall pick, but affirmed that the team views him as a franchise quarterback. He said the franchise tag remains an option for 2027 and that the organization is open to resuming negotiations if Mayfield and his agent wish to do so.

Mayfield has publicly voiced frustration over the lack of a longer extension but has continued to focus on preparation, according to Licht. The GM described Mayfield as a competitive player who is “all-in” and emphasized that both the player and the team are in a good place.

Licht reflected on the broader context of contract negotiations, citing past examples such as wide receiver Mike Evans and left tackle Tristan Wirfs, and said the Buccaneers take pride in re-signing players while recognizing that not every discussion ends as initially hoped.