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NY Giants signal-caller Russell Wilson did not hold back on social media this Tuesday, reacting to recent criticism from his ex-mentor Sean Payton.

"Tasteless... but not surprised...," Wilson stated via social media. "Didn't realize you're still offering rewards 15+ years later through the media."

Wilson's remarks directly referenced the infamous Bounty Gate controversy from 2009-11, when Payton was coaching the New Orleans Saints.

At that time, the league determined that the Saints had rewarded team members for delivering aggressive tackles on opponents. Consequently, Payton received a suspension from the NFL for a full year.

What Sparked the Latest Exchange

Wilson's reaction came after Payton delivered comments following the Broncos' historic comeback victory over the Giants. The coach suggested that the Giants had "found a little spark" with their new QB, who has replaced Wilson as the starting quarterback.

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

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

Context of the Wilson-Payton Partnership

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

Had Wilson remained on the roster by March 2024, his $37M salary for 2025 would have been locked in. In the end, Wilson was let go, marking the ugly breakup between the quarterback and his mentor.