Bucs to Go Without Starting Defensive Tackle Vita Vea

Tampa Bay's Defense to Face Washington Commanders Without Key Piece

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will be without starting defensive tackle Vita Vea when they face the Washington Commanders in Week 1. Vea suffered a calf injury in practice this week and has been ruled out for Sunday's game.

Vea is a key part of the Buccaneers' defense, and his absence will be a big loss. The 6-foot-4, 347-pound tackle is one of the most disruptive players in the NFL, and he is a major reason why the Buccaneers have one of the best defenses in the league.

Vea's Absence Will Test the Buccaneers' Depth

Vea's absence will test the depth of the Buccaneers' defensive line. The Buccaneers have some talented players behind Vea, but they are unproven. Rakeem Nunez-Roches and Will Gholston are the most likely candidates to replace Vea in the starting lineup, but they have not shown that they can be as effective as Vea.

The Commanders will look to exploit the Buccaneers' lack of depth on the defensive line. Washington has a strong running game led by Antonio Gibson, and they will likely try to pound the ball at the Buccaneers all day long.

Buccaneers Will Need to Find a Way to Replace Vea's Production

The Buccaneers will need to find a way to replace Vea's production if they want to win on Sunday. The Commanders are a tough opponent, and the Buccaneers will need to be at their best to beat them.

The Buccaneers will likely try to replace Vea's production by committee. Nunez-Roches, Gholston, and Jeremiah Ledbetter will all likely see an increase in playing time, and they will need to step up and make plays.

The Buccaneers will also need to get more pressure on the quarterback. Vea is one of the best pass rushers in the NFL, and his absence will make it easier for the Commanders to protect the football.

The Buccaneers will need to make some adjustments on defense to account for Vea's absence, but they have the talent to get the job done. The Commanders are a tough opponent, but the Buccaneers are confident that they can win without Vea.