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New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson did not hold back on social media this Tuesday, responding to recent criticism from his ex-mentor Sean Payton.

"Tasteless... but not surprised...," Wilson declared via social media. "Had no idea you're still offering rewards 15+ years later through the press."

The quarterback's remarks pointed to the infamous bounty scandal controversy from 2009 to 2011, when Payton led the Saints.

During that period, the NFL found that the Saints had rewarded players for delivering hard hits on opponents. Consequently, Payton was suspended from the league for a full year.

What Sparked the Latest Exchange

Wilson's reaction came after Payton delivered remarks after the Broncos' remarkable 33-32 win over the New York. The coach suggested that the team had "found a little spark" with their new QB, who has taken over Wilson as the starting quarterback.

Additionally, Payton hinted that he had told Giants owner John Mara that he would rather playing against Wilson over Dart.

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

Context of the Coach-QB Relationship

• The quarterback was traded to the Denver from Seattle in 2022 and signed a five-year, $245 million contract.
• The Broncos went 4 wins and 11 losses in his debut year prior to the team brought in Payton, who was returning to the sidelines after a stint in broadcasting.
• The coach benched Wilson 15 games into the 2023 campaign, a decision that ensured the player from suffering an injury.

Had Wilson stayed on the roster by March 2024, his $37M salary for the following year would have been locked in. Ultimately, Wilson was released, marking the ugly breakup between the quarterback and his coach.