Jeffery Simmons' contract extension raises stakes for Vita Vea and Bucs

The Tennessee Titans extended Jeffery Simmons with a three-year, $105.8 million contract, resetting the defensive tackle market. Simmons' deal includes $100 million guaranteed, raising the average annual value to $35.3 million, well above the previous record. This development complicates contract negotiations for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with defensive tackle Vita Vea, whose leverage has increased significantly. Vea, entering his ninth season, is expected to seek a raise above his current $17 million salary for 2026, amid questions regarding the Buccaneers' willingness to meet that demand.

• 4:48 AMYahoo Sports — Jeffery Simmons' Extension With Titans Spells Bad News For Bucs