Bucs designate Vea to return from injured reserve

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could get a boost along their defensive line ahead of the NFC Championship Game.

Defensive tackle Vita Vea is being designated to return from the injured reserve and is expected to practice on Wednesday, the team announced.

Vea has been out since October after fracturing his ankle. It was initially feared the 25-year-old would miss the remainder of the season. Vea tallied 10 tackles - including three for a loss - and two sacks through five games.

The third-year pro would join a Buccaneers defensive line that also features Ndamukong Suh and William Gholston.

The Bucs will attempt to make their second-ever Super Bowl appearance with a win over the Green Bay Packers on Sunday.