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

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

Wilson's remarks directly referenced the notorious Bounty Gate issue from 2009 to 2011, when Payton led the New Orleans Saints.

During that period, the NFL determined that the Saints had incentivized players for making aggressive tackles on rival teams. As a result, Payton received a suspension from the league for one season.

The Cause of the Latest Dispute

Wilson's response came after Payton made comments following the Broncos' historic 33-32 victory over the New York. Payton remarked that the team had "discovered new energy" with Jaxson Dart, who has taken over Wilson as the first-string QB.

Additionally, Payton implied that he had told 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 hoped that the switch would've happened long after our game,'" Payton stated.

Context of the Coach-QB Relationship

• The quarterback was traded to the Broncos from the Seahawks in 2022 and inked a five-year, $245 million contract.
• The Broncos finished 4-11 in his debut year before Denver hired Payton, who was returning to coaching after a stint in TV commentary.
• Payton replaced Wilson 15 games into the 2023 campaign, a move that ensured the player from getting injured.

Had Wilson remained on the roster by spring 2024, his $37 million pay for the following year would have been guaranteed. Ultimately, Wilson was let go, marking the contentious breakup between the player and his coach.