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

"Tasteless... but not surprised...," Wilson declared on X. "Didn't realize you're still offering rewards 15+ years later through the media."

The quarterback's remarks pointed to the infamous Bounty Gate controversy from 2009-11, when Payton led the Saints.

At that time, the league found that the Saints had rewarded players for making hard hits on opponents. Consequently, Payton was suspended from the league for a full year.

What Sparked the Recent Exchange

Wilson's reaction came after Payton made comments following the Broncos' historic comeback victory over the New York. Payton remarked that the team had "found a little spark" with their new QB, who has replaced Wilson as the starting quarterback.

Additionally, Payton hinted that he had informed Giants owner John Mara that he would prefer facing Wilson over Dart.

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

Context of the Wilson-Payton Partnership

• Wilson was traded to the Broncos from the Seahawks in 2022 and inked a five-year, $245 million contract.
• The Broncos finished 4-11 in his first season prior to the team hired Payton, who was coming back to the sidelines after a period in broadcasting.
• The coach replaced Wilson late into the 2023 campaign, a move that prevented the player from getting injured.

Had Wilson remained on the roster by March 2024, his $37M pay for 2025 would have been guaranteed. In the end, Wilson was released, marking the contentious split between the quarterback and his coach.