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

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

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

During that period, the NFL found that the Saints had rewarded team members for making aggressive tackles on rival teams. As a result, Payton was suspended from the NFL for one season.

What Sparked the Latest Dispute

The quarterback's response came after Payton delivered remarks following the Broncos' remarkable 33-32 victory over the Giants. The coach remarked that the Giants had "discovered new energy" with Jaxson Dart, who has taken over Wilson as the starting quarterback.

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

"I spoke to John Mara not too long ago and I said, 'We hoped that change would've happened long after our game,'" Payton stated.

Context of the Wilson-Payton Relationship

• Wilson was traded to the Broncos from the Seahawks in 2022 and inked a 5-year, $245M extension.
• The Broncos finished 4-11 in his debut year before Denver hired Payton, who was coming back to the sidelines after a stint in TV commentary.
• Payton benched Wilson 15 games into the 2023 season, a decision that ensured the player from suffering an injury.

Had Wilson stayed on the team by spring 2024, his $37M salary for the following year would have been guaranteed. Ultimately, Wilson was released, ending the ugly breakup between the player and his coach.