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New York Giants signal-caller Russell Wilson didn't mince words on online platforms this week, reacting to latest comments from his former coach Sean Payton.

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

Wilson's remarks directly referenced the notorious bounty scandal controversy from 2009-11, when Payton led the New Orleans Saints.

During that period, the league determined that the Saints had incentivized team members for delivering hard hits on rival teams. As a result, Payton received a suspension from the NFL for one season.

What Sparked the Recent Dispute

Wilson's response came after Payton delivered remarks following the Broncos' remarkable comeback victory over the New York. Payton suggested that the team had "discovered new energy" with their new QB, who has replaced Wilson as the starting quarterback.

Additionally, Payton implied that he had told team owner John Mara that he would prefer facing Wilson over Dart.

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

Context of the Wilson-Payton Partnership

• Wilson was traded to the Broncos from the Seahawks in 2022 and signed a 5-year, $245M contract.
• The Broncos went 4-11 in his first season before the team brought in Payton, who was coming back to coaching after a stint in TV commentary.
• The coach replaced Wilson late into the 2023 campaign, a decision that ensured the quarterback from getting injured.

Had Wilson stayed on the roster by spring 2024, his $37M salary for 2025 would have been locked in. Ultimately, Wilson was released, ending the ugly split between the quarterback and his coach.