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NY Giants quarterback Russell Wilson didn't mince words on online platforms this week, responding to recent criticism from his former coach Sean Payton.

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

Wilson's remarks pointed to the notorious Bounty Gate issue from 2009-11, when Payton led the New Orleans Saints.

At that time, the league determined that the Saints had rewarded players for making aggressive tackles on rival teams. Consequently, Payton received a suspension from the NFL for a full year.

What Sparked the Latest Exchange

Wilson's response came after Payton delivered remarks following the Broncos' remarkable 33-32 win over the Giants. The coach suggested that the team had "discovered new energy" with Jaxson Dart, who has replaced Wilson as the starting quarterback.

Additionally, Payton implied that he had informed team owner John Mara that he would rather facing Wilson instead of Dart.

"I was talking to John Mara recently and I said, 'We hoped that change would've happened well after our game,'" Payton commented.

Context of the Wilson-Payton Partnership

• The quarterback joined the Denver from Seattle in 2022 and signed a five-year, $245M contract.
• The team finished 4-11 in his first season before the team brought in Payton, who was coming back to coaching after a stint in TV commentary.
• The coach replaced Wilson 15 games into the 2023 season, a move that ensured the quarterback from getting injured.

If Wilson remained on the roster by March 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 coach.