Giants QB Wilson Responds at Former Coach Sean Payton Regarding Quarterback Comments
New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson did not hold back on online platforms this Tuesday, reacting to latest comments from his former coach 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."
The quarterback's response pointed to the notorious bounty scandal issue from 2009 to 2011, when Payton led the Saints.
During that period, the NFL found that the Saints had incentivized players for delivering aggressive tackles on rival teams. As a result, Payton received a suspension from the NFL for one season.
What Sparked the Recent Dispute
Wilson's reaction came after Payton made remarks after Denver's remarkable 33-32 win over the New York. Payton remarked 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 rather facing Wilson over 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 commented.
Context of the Coach-QB Partnership
- Wilson was traded to the Denver from Seattle in 2022 and signed a 5-year, $245 million extension.
- The Broncos finished 4-11 in his debut year before Denver brought in Payton, who was coming back to coaching after a period in TV commentary.
- The coach replaced Wilson late into the 2023 campaign, a decision that prevented the quarterback from getting injured.
Had Wilson stayed on the team by spring 2024, his $37M pay for 2025 would have been guaranteed. Ultimately, Wilson was released, ending the ugly split between the quarterback and his mentor.
