Giants QB Wilson Responds at Ex-Mentor Sean Payton Over Quarterback Comments
NY Giants quarterback Russell Wilson did not hold back on online platforms this Tuesday, responding to latest criticism from his ex-mentor Sean Payton.
"Tasteless... but not surprised...," Wilson declared on X. "Didn't realize you're still bounty hunting 15+ years later through the media."
The quarterback's remarks pointed to the infamous bounty scandal controversy from 2009 to 2011, when Payton was coaching the New Orleans Saints.
At that time, the league found that the Saints had rewarded team members for making hard hits on opponents. Consequently, Payton received a suspension from the league for a full year.
The Cause of the Latest Exchange
Wilson's reaction came after Payton made remarks following the Broncos' historic comeback win over the Giants. The coach suggested that the Giants had "found a little spark" with Jaxson Dart, who has replaced Wilson as the starting quarterback.
Moreover, Payton hinted that he had told Giants owner John Mara that he would prefer playing against Wilson instead of Dart.
"I was talking to John Mara recently and I said, 'We hoped that the switch would've happened well after our game,'" Payton commented.
Background of the Coach-QB Relationship
- Wilson joined the Denver from Seattle in 2022 and signed a five-year, $245 million extension.
- The Broncos went 4 wins and 11 losses in his first season prior to the team hired Payton, who was returning to coaching after a stint in TV commentary.
- The coach benched Wilson late into the 2023 campaign, a move that ensured the player from getting injured.
Had Wilson stayed on the team by spring 2024, his $37M pay for 2025 would have been guaranteed. In the end, Wilson was released, ending the ugly breakup between the player and his mentor.
