Former Husky Vita Vea Is Making His Case For All-Pro
After using the 12th overall pick in the 2018 NFL draft on Washington Huskies defensive tackle Vita Vea, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have had a stalwart in the middle of their defensive line.
Vea has been one of the most impactful interior linemen in the NFL throughout his career, amassing 21.5 career sacks, a 2021 Pro Bowl selection and a Super Bowl victory. In January 2022, Tampa Bay rewarded the 6-foot-4, 347-pounder with a four-year, $73 million extension.
"Vita’s abilities as both a premier run-stuffer and pass rusher are rare, and his presence on the defensive front has played a major role in our ability to consistently rank among the league leaders in rush defense since his arrival," Tampa Bay general manager Jason Licht said at the time.
"We look forward to having Vita remain a core piece of our defense for years to come and are excited to continue watching him develop into one of the best nose tackles in the NFL.”
Since signing the contract, Vea has done just what Licht hoped. He notched a career-best 6.5 sacks in 2022 and continues to be one of the best run defenders in the NFL.
Vea has totaled three sacks in four games this season after recording two against the New Orleans Saints and is on pace to once again set a career-high in the category, which should put him in consideration to be recognized as an All-Pro.
While it's never easy to compete with the likes of Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald, Vea certainly has a case to be named an All-Pro. The Buccaneers are seventh in the NFL in total defense, allowing 17 points per game, thanks in large part to Vea.
As the season rolls on, Vea should continue on his torrid pace while surrounded by other Washington Husky alumni. Vea is flanked by defensive tackle Greg Gaines, while edge rusher Joe Tryon-Shoyink, a 2021 first-round pick, is looking to take the next step in his development.
Vea and Tryon-Shoyinka's careers didn't overlap on Montlake, but they've showed they can work well on the field. As Vea continues to push towards All-Pro recognition and, as he sees more attention from opposing offensive lines, it could free up more opportunities for Tryon to get after the passer, too.
The Buccaneers currently lead the NFC South with a 3-1 record and, while they've fielded a talented defense for years, Vea's impact can't be understated and it's time he gets properly recognized for his performance.
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