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New York Giants signal-caller Russell Wilson didn't mince words on social media this week, reacting to latest comments from his ex-mentor Sean Payton.

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

Wilson's remarks pointed to the infamous bounty scandal controversy from 2009 to 2011, when Payton was coaching the Saints.

During that period, the NFL determined that the Saints had rewarded team members for delivering aggressive tackles on opponents. As a result, Payton received a suspension from the league for one season.

The Cause of the Latest Exchange

Wilson's reaction came after Payton made remarks following the Broncos' historic comeback victory over the New York. Payton remarked that the team had "found a little spark" with Jaxson Dart, who has taken over Wilson as the first-string QB.

Moreover, Payton hinted that he had informed Giants owner John Mara that he would prefer facing Wilson instead of Dart.

"I spoke to John Mara recently and I said, 'We were hoping that change would've happened well after our game,'" Payton commented.

Context of the Wilson-Payton Relationship

• The quarterback joined the Denver from the Seahawks in 2022 and inked a 5-year, $245M contract.
• The team went 4-11 in his debut year prior to the team brought in Payton, who was coming back to coaching after a period in broadcasting.
• Payton replaced Wilson late into the 2023 campaign, a decision that prevented the player from suffering an injury.

If Wilson stayed on the team by spring 2024, his $37M pay for the following year would have been locked in. In the end, Wilson was released, ending the ugly split between the quarterback and his coach.