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New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson didn't mince words on social media this week, responding to latest criticism from his former coach Sean Payton.

"Tasteless... but not surprised...," Wilson stated via social media. "Didn't realize you're still offering rewards 15+ years later through the press."

Wilson's response directly referenced the notorious Bounty Gate issue from 2009 to 2011, when Payton was coaching the Saints.

During that period, the NFL determined that the Saints had rewarded team members for delivering aggressive tackles on rival teams. Consequently, Payton was suspended from the league for a full year.

The Cause of the Latest Exchange

Wilson's reaction came after Payton made remarks following the Broncos' remarkable 33-32 win over the Giants. Payton suggested that the Giants had "discovered new energy" with their new QB, who has replaced Wilson as the starting quarterback.

Moreover, Payton hinted that he had informed team owner John Mara that he would rather playing against Wilson instead of 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,'" Payton stated.

Context of the Coach-QB Partnership

• Wilson joined the Broncos from Seattle in 2022 and signed a five-year, $245 million extension.
• The team finished 4-11 in his first season prior to Denver hired Payton, who was coming back to the sidelines after a stint in TV commentary.
• Payton replaced Wilson late into the 2023 season, a decision that prevented the player from getting injured.

Had Wilson stayed on the team by March 2024, his $37M pay for the following year would have been locked in. In the end, Wilson was let go, marking the contentious split between the quarterback and his coach.