According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Bucs have restructured the contract of defensive tackle Vita Vea. The move cleared $7.64 million in cap space. More moves are coming from Tampa Bay, as they clear space to get under the cap for the new league year. The Bucs will also need ample cap space as they attempt to re-sign a majority of their 25 free agents.

In early January, the Bucs signed Vea to a massive, four-year contract extension. The hulking defensive tackle signed the $71 million contract before the season ended, locking him up with the Bucs through the 2026 season. With this move, Vea’s base salary will go from $10.6 million to $1.12 million. The remaining $9.6 million will be prorated over the life of the deal. Given how the cap is expected to increase over the next couple of years, it’s not a big concern for the Bucs.

More moves are coming. Tampa Bay needs to clear additional cap space as free agency officially opens on Wednesday. But on Monday at noon EST, players are free to negotiate with teams. The Bucs need additional cap space in order to re-sign many of their key free agents. At the top of their priority list is C Ryan Jensen, OG Alex Cappa, CB Carlton Davis, S Jordan Whitehead and RB Leonard Fournette.

The Bucs are currently $3.21 million over the cap. Expect a Shaq Barrett contract restructure and possibly a Mike Evans’ extension to be among Tampa Bay’s next moves. And, hopefully, a Chris Godwin long-term contract that lowers his 2022 cap hit. Stay tuned.