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NY Giants quarterback Russell Wilson did not hold back on social media this Tuesday, responding to recent comments from his former coach Sean Payton.

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

The quarterback's remarks directly referenced the infamous bounty scandal controversy from 2009 to 2011, when Payton was coaching the Saints.

During that period, the league determined that the Saints had rewarded team members for making aggressive tackles on opponents. As a result, Payton received a suspension from the league for a full year.

What Sparked the Latest Dispute

The quarterback's response came after Payton delivered remarks following Denver's remarkable comeback win over the New York. The coach suggested that the team had "discovered new energy" with their new QB, who has taken over Wilson as the starting quarterback.

Moreover, Payton implied that he had told Giants owner John Mara that he would rather facing Wilson instead of Dart.

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

Context of the Coach-QB Partnership

• The quarterback joined the Denver from the Seahawks in 2022 and inked a five-year, $245M extension.
• The Broncos finished 4-11 in his debut year prior to the team brought in Payton, who was returning to the sidelines after a period in broadcasting.
• The coach benched Wilson late into the 2023 campaign, a decision that prevented the player from suffering an injury.

Had Wilson remained on the team by spring 2024, his $37M salary for 2025 would have been locked in. Ultimately, Wilson was released, ending the ugly split between the quarterback and his mentor.