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

"Classless... but not surprised...," Wilson declared 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 controversy from 2009-11, when Payton led the New Orleans Saints.

During that period, the NFL determined that the Saints had rewarded players for making aggressive tackles on opponents. As a result, Payton was suspended from the league for a full year.

What Sparked the Recent Dispute

The quarterback's response came after Payton delivered comments after the Broncos' remarkable comeback victory over the Giants. The coach remarked that the team had "discovered new energy" with their new QB, who has taken over Wilson as the starting quarterback.

Additionally, Payton hinted that he had told Giants owner John Mara that he would rather playing against Wilson instead of Dart.

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

Context of the Wilson-Payton Partnership

• The quarterback joined the Broncos from Seattle in 2022 and signed a five-year, $245M extension.
• The Broncos went 4-11 in his first season prior to Denver hired Payton, who was returning to coaching after a stint in TV commentary.
• The coach benched Wilson late into the 2023 campaign, a decision that ensured the quarterback from suffering an injury.

Had Wilson remained on the roster by March 2024, his $37 million salary for the following year would have been guaranteed. In the end, Wilson was released, ending the contentious split between the player and his coach.