Giants QB Wilson Responds at Former Coach Sean Payton Over Quarterback Remarks
NY Giants signal-caller Russell Wilson did not hold back on online platforms this Tuesday, reacting to latest comments 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 media."
The quarterback's response pointed to the notorious bounty scandal issue from 2009 to 2011, when Payton was coaching the New Orleans Saints.
During that period, the league found that the Saints had incentivized players for making hard hits on opponents. As a result, Payton received a suspension from the league for one season.
What Sparked the Latest Dispute
Wilson's reaction came after Payton delivered comments after the Broncos' historic 33-32 victory over the New York. The coach suggested that the team had "found a little spark" with their new QB, who has taken over Wilson as the starting quarterback.
Additionally, Payton hinted that he had told Giants owner John Mara that he would rather playing against Wilson over 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 Partnership
- Wilson was traded to the Denver from the Seahawks in 2022 and inked a 5-year, $245M extension.
- The Broncos went 4-11 in his first season prior to Denver brought in Payton, who was returning to coaching after a period in TV commentary.
- Payton replaced Wilson late into the 2023 season, a move that prevented the player from suffering an injury.
If Wilson stayed on the roster by spring 2024, his $37 million salary for the following year would have been guaranteed. Ultimately, Wilson was released, ending the ugly breakup between the player and his coach.
