Giants QB Wilson Responds at Former Coach Sean Payton Over Quarterback Comments
New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson didn't mince words on social media this week, responding to recent comments from his ex-mentor Sean Payton.
"Tasteless... but not shocked...," Wilson declared via social media. "Didn't realize you're still offering rewards 15+ years later through the media."
The quarterback's response pointed to the notorious bounty scandal controversy from 2009-11, when Payton was coaching the New Orleans Saints.
At that time, the NFL found that the Saints had rewarded players for making hard hits on opponents. As a result, Payton was suspended from the league for one season.
What Sparked the Latest Exchange
Wilson's reaction came after Payton made remarks following Denver's historic 33-32 victory over the Giants. The coach suggested that the team had "found a little spark" with their new QB, who has replaced Wilson as the first-string QB.
Moreover, Payton hinted that he had told team owner John Mara that he would prefer playing against Wilson instead of Dart.
"I spoke to John Mara not too long ago and I said, 'We were hoping that the switch would've happened long after our game,'" the coach commented.
Background of the Wilson-Payton Partnership
- The quarterback joined the Broncos from the Seahawks in 2022 and inked a five-year, $245 million extension.
- The Broncos went 4 wins and 11 losses in his debut year prior to the team brought in Payton, who was coming back to the sidelines after a period in TV commentary.
- The coach benched Wilson late into the 2023 campaign, a decision that prevented the quarterback from getting injured.
Had Wilson stayed on the roster by March 2024, his $37M pay for 2025 would have been guaranteed. Ultimately, Wilson was released, ending the ugly breakup between the player and his mentor.
