Russell Wilson Responds at Ex-Mentor Sean Payton Regarding Quarterback Remarks

New York Giants signal-caller Russell Wilson did not hold back on social media this week, responding to recent criticism from his former coach Sean Payton.

"Classless... but not shocked...," Wilson stated on X. "Didn't realize you're still offering rewards 15+ years later through the press."

Wilson's remarks directly referenced the notorious Bounty Gate controversy from 2009-11, when Payton was coaching the New Orleans Saints.

During that period, the league found that the Saints had incentivized players for delivering hard hits on opponents. Consequently, Payton received a suspension from the NFL for one season.

What Sparked the Latest Dispute

The quarterback's reaction came after Payton delivered remarks following Denver's remarkable 33-32 win over the New York. Payton suggested that the team had "discovered new energy" with their new QB, who has taken over Wilson as the first-string QB.

Moreover, Payton hinted that he had told Giants owner John Mara that he would rather facing Wilson over Dart.

"I was talking to John Mara not too long ago and I said, 'We hoped that the switch would've happened well after our game,'" the coach stated.

Background of the Wilson-Payton Relationship

• Wilson was traded to the Denver from Seattle in 2022 and signed a 5-year, $245M extension.
• The team went 4-11 in his first season prior to Denver hired Payton, who was returning to coaching after a period in TV commentary.
• Payton replaced Wilson 15 games into the 2023 campaign, a move that prevented the quarterback from suffering an injury.

If Wilson remained on the roster by spring 2024, his $37 million pay for 2025 would have been guaranteed. Ultimately, Wilson was released, marking the contentious split between the player and his coach.