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NY Giants signal-caller Russell Wilson did not hold back on social media this week, reacting to latest criticism from his ex-mentor Sean Payton.

"Classless... but not shocked...," Wilson stated via social media. "Had no idea you're still bounty hunting 15+ years later through the media."

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

At that time, the NFL determined that the Saints had rewarded players for making aggressive tackles on rival teams. As a result, Payton received a suspension from the NFL for one season.

The Cause of the Recent Exchange

Wilson's reaction came after Payton made comments following the Broncos' historic 33-32 victory over the Giants. The coach suggested that the Giants had "found a little spark" with Jaxson Dart, who has taken over Wilson as the starting quarterback.

Moreover, Payton hinted that he had told team owner John Mara that he would rather playing against Wilson over Dart.

"I was talking to John Mara recently and I said, 'We were hoping that change would've happened long after our game,'" Payton stated.

Background of the Wilson-Payton Partnership

• Wilson joined the Broncos from Seattle in 2022 and signed a 5-year, $245M contract.
• The Broncos went 4 wins and 11 losses in his debut year before Denver brought in Payton, who was returning to the sidelines after a stint in TV commentary.
• Payton replaced Wilson 15 games into the 2023 campaign, a move that prevented the quarterback from suffering an injury.

Had Wilson stayed on the roster by spring 2024, his $37 million pay for the following year would have been locked in. In the end, Wilson was released, ending the contentious breakup between the player and his mentor.