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

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

Wilson's response pointed to the notorious bounty scandal issue from 2009 to 2011, when Payton was coaching the Saints.

At that time, the league determined that the Saints had rewarded team members for delivering aggressive tackles on rival teams. As a result, Payton received a suspension from the NFL for a full year.

What Sparked the Latest Dispute

The quarterback's reaction came after Payton made comments following Denver's remarkable comeback victory over the Giants. The coach suggested that the team had "found a little spark" with Jaxson Dart, who has replaced Wilson as the first-string QB.

Additionally, Payton hinted that he had told team 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 hoped that change would've happened well after our game,'" Payton stated.

Context of the Wilson-Payton Relationship

• The quarterback was traded to the Denver from Seattle in 2022 and inked a five-year, $245 million contract.
• The Broncos went 4-11 in his first season before the team brought in Payton, who was returning to the sidelines after a stint in TV commentary.
• The coach benched Wilson late into the 2023 campaign, a move that ensured the quarterback from suffering an injury.

Had Wilson stayed on the roster by spring 2024, his $37M 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.