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NY Giants signal-caller Russell Wilson did not hold back on online platforms this week, reacting to recent comments from his former coach Sean Payton.

"Tasteless... but not surprised...," Wilson declared via social media. "Had no idea you're still offering rewards 15+ years later through the media."

The quarterback's remarks directly referenced the infamous Bounty Gate controversy from 2009 to 2011, when Payton led the Saints.

At that time, the league determined that the Saints had incentivized team members for delivering aggressive tackles on rival teams. Consequently, Payton received a suspension from the NFL for one season.

The Cause of the Recent Exchange

Wilson's response came after Payton delivered remarks following the Broncos' historic comeback victory over the Giants. The coach suggested that the team had "discovered new energy" with their new QB, who has taken over Wilson as the first-string QB.

Additionally, Payton hinted that he had informed Giants owner John Mara that he would prefer facing Wilson over Dart.

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

Context of the Wilson-Payton Partnership

• Wilson joined the Broncos from the Seahawks in 2022 and signed a five-year, $245 million contract.
• The Broncos went 4 wins and 11 losses in his first season prior to Denver brought in Payton, who was coming back to the sidelines after a period in broadcasting.
• The coach benched Wilson 15 games into the 2023 season, a move that ensured the player from getting injured.

If Wilson stayed on the roster by spring 2024, his $37 million salary for the following year would have been locked in. In the end, Wilson was released, ending the ugly split between the player and his mentor.