Vita Vea is an American professional football player who plays as a defensive tackle for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the National Football League (NFL). Widely regarded as one of the league’s most dominant interior defensive linemen, Vea is known for his exceptional strength, athleticism, run-stopping ability, and pass-rushing skills. Since entering the NFL in 2018, he has become a cornerstone of Tampa Bay’s defence and played a vital role in the club’s Super Bowl LV victory.
Vita Vea Quick Facts
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tevita Tuliʻakiʻono Tuipulotu Mosese Vaʻhae Fehoko Faletau Vea |
| Profession | Professional American Football Player |
| Date of Birth | 5 February 1995 |
| Age | 31 Years (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Milpitas, California, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) |
| Weight | 347 lb (157 kg) |
| Position | Defensive Tackle |
| Current Team | Tampa Bay Buccaneers |
| Jersey Number | 50 |
| College | University of Washington |
| NFL Draft | 2018 – Round 1, Pick 12 |
| Net Worth | Estimated US$18–25 Million |
Early Life and Education
Vita Vea was born on 5 February 1995 in Milpitas, California, and is of Tongan heritage. He attended Milpitas High School, where he excelled in football and track and field.
He later enrolled at the University of Washington, becoming one of the nation’s top defensive linemen. During his college career, Vea earned First-team All-Pac-12 honours and was named the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year in 2017 before declaring for the NFL Draft.
Age, Height and Weight
As of 2026, Vita Vea is 31 years old.
- Height: 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
- Weight: 347 lb (157 kg)
Despite his massive frame, Vea is known for remarkable speed and agility, making him one of the NFL’s most athletic defensive tackles.
NFL Career
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected Vita Vea with the 12th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2018–Present)
After overcoming an early-season injury during his rookie year, Vea quickly established himself as one of the league’s elite defensive tackles. His ability to collapse the pocket and stop the run became a key factor in Tampa Bay’s defensive success.
He played a crucial role in helping the Buccaneers win Super Bowl LV during the 2020 season and has since earned multiple Pro Bowl selections while consistently ranking among the NFL’s best interior defenders.
Playing Position
Vita Vea plays as a:
- Defensive Tackle
Playing Strengths
- Elite strength
- Run defence
- Pass rushing
- Tackling power
- Athleticism
- Pocket disruption
- Leadership
- Durability
His combination of size and quickness makes him one of the most difficult defensive linemen for opposing offensive lines to block.
Career Stats
NFL Career Statistics (through the 2025 season)
- Games Played: 97+
- Total Tackles: 250+
- Sacks: 30+
- Quarterback Hits: 75+
- Forced Fumbles: 6+
- Fumble Recoveries: 4+
Major Achievements
- Super Bowl LV Champion
- Multiple Pro Bowl Selection
- First-team All-Pac-12
- Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year (2017)
His performances have established him as one of the NFL’s premier defensive tackles.
Family
Vita Vea comes from a proud Tongan-American family and has frequently spoken about the importance of his Polynesian heritage.
He has dedicated much of his success to his parents and extended family, who supported him throughout his football journey.
Wife
As of 2026, Vita Vea has not publicly confirmed that he is married, and there is no verified public information indicating that he has a wife.
He generally keeps his personal life private.
Contract
In 2023, Vita Vea signed a four-year contract extension worth approximately US$71 million with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, keeping him among the highest-paid defensive tackles in the NFL.
The deal includes significant guaranteed money and keeps him under contract through the 2027 season.
Injury
Throughout his NFL career, Vita Vea has dealt with several injuries, including:
- Calf injury (2018)
- Broken leg during the 2020 season
- Minor foot and knee injuries in later seasons
Despite these setbacks, he has consistently returned to top form and remained one of Tampa Bay’s defensive leaders.
Salary
Under his current contract, Vita Vea earns an average annual salary of approximately:
- US$17–18 million per year
He also receives signing bonuses, performance incentives, and endorsement income.
Net Worth
As of 2026, Vita Vea’s estimated net worth is between US$18 million and US$25 million.
His primary income sources include:
- NFL salary
- Contract bonuses
- Sponsorships
- Brand endorsements
- Public appearances
Wikipedia
Vita Vea has an official Wikipedia page covering his early life, college football career, NFL achievements, awards, and career statistics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Vita Vea?
Vita Vea is an American NFL defensive tackle who plays for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
How old is Vita Vea?
He is 31 years old as of 2026.
How tall is Vita Vea?
He is 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) tall.
What is Vita Vea’s weight?
He weighs 347 lb (157 kg).
Is Vita Vea married?
There is no publicly confirmed information that he is married.
What is Vita Vea’s contract?
He signed a four-year contract extension worth approximately US$71 million with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2023.
What is Vita Vea’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is US$18–25 million.
Final Words
Vita Vea has developed into one of the NFL’s most dominant defensive tackles through his rare blend of power, athleticism, and consistency. From his standout college career at the University of Washington to becoming a Super Bowl champion with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he has earned a reputation as one of the league’s elite defensive players. At 31 years old, Vita Vea remains a crucial part of Tampa Bay’s defence and continues to rank among the NFL’s premier interior linemen.