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New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson didn't mince words on online platforms this week, responding to recent criticism from his former coach Sean Payton.

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

Wilson's remarks directly referenced the infamous Bounty Gate issue from 2009 to 2011, when Payton led the Saints.

At that time, the league found that the Saints had incentivized team members for making hard hits on opponents. Consequently, Payton received a suspension from the league for one season.

The Cause of the Recent Exchange

Wilson's reaction came after Payton made comments after Denver's remarkable comeback victory over the Giants. The coach suggested that the Giants had "discovered new energy" with their new QB, who has taken over Wilson as the first-string QB.

Moreover, Payton implied that he had told Giants owner John Mara that he would rather playing against Wilson instead of Dart.

"I spoke to John Mara recently and I said, 'We were hoping that change would've happened well after our game,'" the coach stated.

Context of the Wilson-Payton Partnership

• Wilson was traded to the Denver from Seattle in 2022 and inked a 5-year, $245M contract.
• The Broncos went 4-11 in his debut year before Denver brought in Payton, who was returning to coaching after a stint in TV commentary.
• The coach replaced Wilson 15 games into the 2023 campaign, a decision that ensured the quarterback from getting injured.

If Wilson stayed on the team by spring 2024, his $37M salary for 2025 would have been guaranteed. In the end, Wilson was let go, marking the ugly breakup between the quarterback and his mentor.