The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are facing off against the New Orleans Saints in Week 8 on Sunday, and they’d want to have one of their best defensive players in the lineup.

The Bucs are set to face off against the Saints for the first of their two matchups this year, this one in New Orleans in Week 8. Defensive tackle Vita Vea showed up at practice on Wednesday, but he did not practice on Thursday and Friday with a foot injury, leaving some to wonder what his status is for the game on Sunday.

Here’s what head coach Todd Bowles said about Vea’s playing status:

Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Vita Vea (50) warms up before a game against the New York Jets. / Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Bowles spoke to media on Friday, and he mentioned that Vea will be listed as questionable for Sunday’s game with his foot injury. When asked if he was currently on track to play, Bowles said that that was indeed the case.

The news is welcome in Tampa Bay. Vea has had a strong season so far in 2025, netting 12 solo tackles, two sacks and 19 pressures across the first seven games. His size also typically demands a lot of double teams, so if he’s in, surrounding players like Elijah Roberts can play their own game more effectively.

Vea will also be able to take particular advantage against the New Orleans Saints. The Saints recently put center Erik McCoy on IR for the rest of the year, with one of Cesar Ruiz or Torricelli Simpkins taking his place. A backup at center lines right up against Vea, so if he is to play, he’ll be able to feast while attacking that particular weakness.

The Buccaneers and the Saints play each other at 4:05 on Sunday in New Orleans.