Giants QB Wilson Fires Back at Former Coach Sean Payton Regarding Quarterback Remarks

New York Giants signal-caller Russell Wilson didn't mince words on online platforms this week, responding to recent comments from his ex-mentor Sean Payton.

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

The quarterback's response pointed to the notorious Bounty Gate controversy from 2009 to 2011, when Payton was coaching the New Orleans Saints.

At that time, the league determined that the Saints had rewarded team members for making aggressive tackles on rival teams. Consequently, Payton received a suspension from the NFL for one season.

What Sparked the Recent Exchange

Wilson's response came after Payton delivered remarks after the Broncos' historic 33-32 win over the New York. The coach remarked that the team had "found a little spark" with Jaxson Dart, who has taken over Wilson as the first-string QB.

Additionally, Payton implied that he had informed Giants owner John Mara that he would prefer playing against Wilson instead of Dart.

"I spoke to John Mara not too long ago and I said, 'We hoped that the switch would've happened long after our game,'" the coach commented.

Background of the Coach-QB Relationship

• Wilson was traded to the Broncos from the Seahawks in 2022 and inked a five-year, $245 million extension.
• The team finished 4 wins and 11 losses in his first season prior to the team hired Payton, who was coming back to the sidelines after a period in TV commentary.
• The coach benched Wilson 15 games into the 2023 season, a decision that ensured the quarterback from suffering an injury.

If Wilson remained on the roster by March 2024, his $37M pay for 2025 would have been guaranteed. In the end, Wilson was released, ending the ugly split between the quarterback and his mentor.