Russell Wilson Responds at Former Coach Sean Payton Regarding Quarterback Remarks
NY Giants quarterback Russell Wilson didn't mince words on social media this Tuesday, reacting to latest comments from his former coach Sean Payton.
"Tasteless... but not surprised...," Wilson stated on X. "Didn't realize you're still offering rewards 15+ years later through the media."
Wilson's response directly referenced the notorious bounty scandal controversy from 2009 to 2011, when Payton was coaching the New Orleans Saints.
During that period, the league found that the Saints had rewarded team members for delivering aggressive tackles on rival teams. As a result, Payton received a suspension from the league for a full year.
What Sparked the Recent Exchange
Wilson's response came after Payton delivered comments after the Broncos' historic 33-32 victory over the Giants. Payton remarked that the team had "discovered new energy" 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 playing against Wilson instead of Dart.
"I was talking to John Mara not too long ago and I said, 'We were hoping that change would've happened well after our game,'" Payton stated.
Background of the Wilson-Payton Relationship
- The quarterback joined the Denver from the Seahawks in 2022 and signed a 5-year, $245M contract.
- The Broncos finished 4-11 in his debut year prior to Denver brought in Payton, who was coming back to coaching after a stint in TV commentary.
- Payton replaced Wilson late into the 2023 season, a decision that ensured the quarterback from suffering an injury.
If Wilson stayed on the roster by March 2024, his $37M pay for the following year would have been locked in. Ultimately, Wilson was released, ending the contentious split between the quarterback and his coach.
