The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have two major contract decisions hanging over the organization, but NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reports that the front office does not feel pressured to resolve either one immediately.
Garafolo said Tampa Bay is not close to reaching extensions with quarterback Baker Mayfield or defensive tackle Vita Vea, two longtime leaders entering contract years in 2026. While negotiations could continue throughout the offseason, the Buccaneers appear comfortable allowing the process to play out rather than forcing an agreement before training camp.
“When it comes to Baker Mayfield or even Vita Vea on the other side of the ball… the Bucs are in no rush on either one of these,” Garafolo said.
Mayfield has publicly expressed his desire to remain in Tampa Bay, saying both sides want to complete a deal but still need to find common ground. His uneven 2025 season may complicate the two sides’ assessment of his value. According to PFF, Mayfield passed for 3,695 yards, 27 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions while earning a 70.0 overall offensive grade. He also remained dangerous outside the pocket, adding 402 rushing yards and forcing 22 missed tackles.
Vea remains one of the most important pieces of Todd Bowles’ defense. The veteran defensive tackle generated 51 pressures in 2025, including four sacks, eight quarterback hits, and 39 hurries, according to PFF. He also recorded 22 tackles and 21 defensive stops while continuing to absorb attention in the middle of Tampa Bay’s defensive front.
Neither negotiation is simple. Mayfield plays the league’s most expensive position, while Vea is entering the later stages of his career at a physically demanding spot. General manager Jason Licht must weigh their value against future extensions for a young core that the Buccaneers have built through several productive draft classes.
Garafolo’s report does not suggest Tampa Bay is ready to move on from either player. Instead, it shows that the Buccaneers are willing to remain patient as they determine contracts that make sense for both the players and the organization beyond the 2026 season.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: NFL insider on Baker Mayfield and Vita Vea deals: ‘Bucs are in no rush
Reporting by Mason Riney, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Mason Riney, Buccaneers Wire | USA TODAY Network
