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New York Giants signal-caller Russell Wilson didn't mince words on social media this Tuesday, responding to recent comments from his former coach Sean Payton.

"Classless... but not surprised...," Wilson stated on X. "Didn't realize you're still bounty hunting 15+ years later through the media."

The quarterback's remarks pointed to the notorious bounty scandal controversy from 2009-11, when Payton was coaching the New Orleans Saints.

During that period, the league found that the Saints had rewarded team members for making hard hits on rival teams. As a result, Payton received a suspension from the NFL for a full year.

The Cause of the Latest Exchange

Wilson's response came after Payton delivered remarks following the Broncos' historic comeback victory over the New York. Payton remarked that the Giants had "discovered new energy" with Jaxson Dart, who has replaced Wilson as the starting quarterback.

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

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

Background of the Wilson-Payton Partnership

• Wilson joined the Broncos from Seattle in 2022 and signed a five-year, $245 million extension.
• The team went 4-11 in his first season before the team brought in Payton, who was coming back to coaching after a stint in broadcasting.
• Payton replaced Wilson late into the 2023 campaign, a move that ensured the player from getting injured.

Had Wilson stayed on the team by March 2024, his $37 million salary for the following year would have been locked in. Ultimately, Wilson was released, ending the ugly breakup between the quarterback and his mentor.