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NY Giants quarterback Russell Wilson didn't mince words on online platforms this Tuesday, responding to latest comments from his ex-mentor Sean Payton.

"Tasteless... but not surprised...," Wilson stated via social media. "Didn't realize you're still bounty hunting 15+ years later through the press."

Wilson's remarks pointed to the infamous bounty scandal issue from 2009-11, when Payton led the New Orleans Saints.

During that period, the NFL found that the Saints had rewarded team members for delivering aggressive tackles on opponents. Consequently, Payton was suspended from the NFL for a full year.

What Sparked the Recent Dispute

Wilson's response came after Payton delivered comments after Denver's historic comeback win over the New York. The coach remarked that the Giants had "discovered new energy" with Jaxson Dart, who has replaced Wilson as the starting quarterback.

Additionally, Payton hinted that he had told Giants owner John Mara that he would prefer playing against Wilson over Dart.

"I spoke to John Mara recently and I said, 'We hoped that change would've happened long after our game,'" the coach stated.

Background of the Coach-QB Relationship

• Wilson joined the Broncos from Seattle in 2022 and inked a five-year, $245 million extension.
• The team finished 4-11 in his first season before the team brought in Payton, who was returning to the sidelines after a period in broadcasting.
• Payton benched Wilson late into the 2023 season, a decision that ensured the player from getting injured.

Had Wilson stayed on the roster by March 2024, his $37M pay for 2025 would have been locked in. Ultimately, Wilson was let go, ending the contentious breakup between the player and his coach.