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New York Giants signal-caller Russell Wilson didn't mince words on social media this week, responding to latest comments from his former coach Sean Payton.

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

Wilson's response pointed to the infamous bounty scandal issue from 2009 to 2011, when Payton was coaching the New Orleans Saints.

At that time, the NFL determined that the Saints had incentivized team members for making 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 made remarks following Denver's historic comeback win over the New York. The coach suggested that the team had "found a little spark" with their new QB, who has taken over Wilson as the starting quarterback.

Additionally, Payton hinted that he had told team owner John Mara that he would prefer playing against Wilson instead of Dart.

"I was talking to John Mara recently and I said, 'We hoped that the switch would've happened well after our game,'" the coach stated.

Background of the Coach-QB Partnership

• Wilson was traded to the Broncos from the Seahawks in 2022 and inked a 5-year, $245M extension.
• The Broncos finished 4-11 in his debut year prior to Denver hired Payton, who was returning to coaching after a stint in TV commentary.
• The coach replaced Wilson late into the 2023 campaign, a move that prevented the quarterback from getting injured.

If Wilson stayed on the team by spring 2024, his $37M pay for the following year would have been locked in. Ultimately, Wilson was let go, marking the contentious split between the player and his coach.