Buccaneers coach says contract talks with Mayfield and Vea won’t distract training camp

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers entered training camp while quarterback Baker Mayfield and defensive tackle Vita Vea are involved in separate contract negotiations. Mayfield is expected to play the season on the final year of his current deal after talks on an extension stalled, and Vea has requested a trade after failing to secure a new contract.

When asked how the negotiations might affect the team’s focus, head coach Todd Bowles said the club’s priority remains football. He noted that contract discussions are a regular part of the offseason and emphasized that the players and staff are experienced in handling such situations. Bowles added that any further talks about Mayfield’s contract should be directed to general manager Jason Licht, and that the coaching staff will keep its attention on preparing for the opening week of the season.

"We have a very professional and mature group with a lot of leadership there, starting with Baker. He makes sure that’s separate," Bowles said, according to a team transcript.

Bowles reiterated that the team will not let contract issues dominate the camp and will focus on on-field performance.