Bucs not distracted by Baker Mayfield, Vita Vea contract talks as training camp begins
Bucs hold first training camp practice
It's year five as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach for Todd Bowles, who is looking to make a return to the playoffs after coming up short in 2025. Vita Vea and Tristan Wirfs suffered minor setbacks in yesterday's conditioning tests, but injuries aren't the only concern. FOX 13's Sean Barie reports.
TAMPA, Fla. - As the first airhorn sounded at One Buccaneer Place, Tampa Bay Buccaneers players took the field to kick off Training Camp for the upcoming season. Head coach Todd Bowles insisted his squad is focusing strictly on football rather than contract disputes.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Training Camp
What we know:
Both quarterback Baker Mayfield and defensive lineman Vita Vea were present for the first day of practice despite contract negotiations stalling. Mayfield participated fully in drills, but he has halted deal talks until after the season ends. Vea did not participate in practice due to a minor back injury and has requested a trade following the contract stalemate.
READ: Tampa Bay Buccaneers release 2026 NFL schedule
Locker room focus
What we don't know:
While questions will remain about whether Mayfield and Vea will be with the team long-term if deals cannot be reached, what isn't being questioned is either's commitment to this season.
"None of us, we never question our teammates' ability to go out there and perform or their desire to give their all to the team," Godwin Jr. said.
"We don't let the outside noise effect what we're doing right now," Bowles said.
Buccaneers season outlook
What they're saying:
Bowles expressed confidence that the roster will avoid contract distractions during camp.
"We talk about all these things, and we have a very mature group," Bowles said. "We make sure that we make it about ball, and we understand the business side of it. Everyone is going to go through that. Coaches and players alike."
Long-term player contracts
What's next:
Mayfield will refrain from further negotiations with the organization until after the season. Vea has not placed a timeline on negotiations as he remains in attendance at Training Camp.
The Source: The information in this story was gathered from Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles, who spoke to media during training camp, as well as wide receiver Chris Godwin Jr.