With the announcement that Elijah Qualls was headed to the NFL early, the Huskies were definitely focused on keeping Vea in the fold after he posted 39 tackles, 6.5 tackle-for-loss and he tied for second on the team with five sacks.

Vea started a handful of games, but played in every game the past two seasons.

With his size and quickness, Vea can play a multitude of positions along the defensive line, but he's been at his best as a nose tackle or three-technique where he can use his strength and outstanding first step to cause problems for opposing offenses.

Vea will likely pair with Greg Gaines up front in the starting lineup.