Giants QB Wilson Fires Back at Former Coach Sean Payton Over Jaxson Dart Remarks

NY Giants signal-caller Russell Wilson did not hold back on online platforms this Tuesday, reacting to recent criticism from his former coach Sean Payton.

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

The quarterback's response pointed to the infamous Bounty Gate controversy from 2009 to 2011, when Payton led the New Orleans Saints.

At that time, the NFL determined that the Saints had rewarded team members for making hard hits on opponents. Consequently, Payton was suspended from the league for one season.

What Sparked the Recent Exchange

Wilson's response came after Payton delivered comments following the Broncos' historic 33-32 victory over the New York. Payton remarked that the team had "discovered new energy" with their new QB, who has taken over Wilson as the starting quarterback.

Moreover, Payton hinted that he had informed Giants 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 the switch would've happened well after our game,'" the coach commented.

Background of the Coach-QB Relationship

• Wilson joined the Broncos from Seattle in 2022 and inked a five-year, $245 million extension.
• The Broncos finished 4 wins and 11 losses in his first season before Denver hired Payton, who was coming back to the sidelines after a stint in broadcasting.
• Payton benched Wilson late into the 2023 season, a decision that ensured the player from getting injured.

If Wilson stayed on the team by spring 2024, his $37M pay for the following year would have been guaranteed. Ultimately, Wilson was released, ending the ugly breakup between the quarterback and his mentor.