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New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson did not hold back on social media this week, responding to recent comments from his ex-mentor Sean Payton.

"Classless... but not shocked...," Wilson stated on X. "Had no idea you're still offering rewards 15+ years later through the press."

Wilson's response directly referenced the notorious bounty scandal issue from 2009 to 2011, when Payton led the Saints.

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

What Sparked the Latest Exchange

Wilson's reaction came after Payton delivered remarks following the Broncos' historic comeback victory over the New York. The coach remarked that the Giants had "discovered new energy" with their new QB, 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 instead of Dart.

"I was talking to John Mara not too long ago and I said, 'We were hoping that change would've happened well after our game,'" Payton commented.

Background of the Wilson-Payton Relationship

• Wilson joined the Denver from the Seahawks in 2022 and signed a five-year, $245 million contract.
• The Broncos went 4-11 in his debut year before the team hired Payton, who was coming back to coaching after a stint in TV commentary.
• The coach benched Wilson late into the 2023 campaign, a move that prevented the quarterback from getting injured.

Had Wilson stayed on the team by spring 2024, his $37 million salary for the following year would have been guaranteed. In the end, Wilson was released, ending the ugly breakup between the quarterback and his coach.