The Chicago Bears are turning over every rock to find ways to improve their team, including checking in on one of the best defensive tackles in football. On Friday, NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo reported that the Bears were one of a few teams around the league to check in with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers about the availability of disgruntled defensive tackle Vita Vea. Garafolo mentioned the San Francisco 49ers and Buffalo Bills were among the others interested.
From @NFLGameDay Kickoff: Teams have checked on Vita Vea’s availability (the #Bills, #Bears and #49ers among them) but the #Buccaneers remain steadfast they’re not trading him and have kept the lines of communication open on a potential new deal. pic.twitter.com/V4tdIQt2Xy
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) August 14, 2026
Vea reported to Buccaneers camp looking for a new deal as he enters the final year of his contract, set to make $18 million in 2026. When contract talks stalled, Vea requested a trade and decided to hold in until a resolution was reached. Garafolo reports that Vea and the Buccaneers have had talks regarding a new deal that would give the star defensive tackle a significant raise, though no extension is imminent.
Should the Buccaneers opt to deal Vea, the Bears are interested and make plenty of sense. Chicago has established itself as a contender following a strong 2025 season in which they went 11-6 and captured the NFC North. But they're missing a difference maker on the defensive line who can wreck opposing offenses, and Vea would be an excellent solution for that problem.
Vea, a two-time Pro Bowler, totaled 34 tackles (seven for loss), 13 QB hits, 4.5 sacks, and two pass breakups last season for the Buccaneers. At age 31, he's on the backend of his career but is still one of the best players at his position. We'll see if Tampa ends up moving him or not, but either way, the Bears are keeping tabs on the situation.
This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears have checked in on Buccaneers' Pro Bowl DT Vita Vea