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New York Giants signal-caller Russell Wilson did not hold back on social media this week, responding to recent comments from his ex-mentor Sean Payton.

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

Wilson's response directly referenced the infamous Bounty Gate controversy from 2009 to 2011, when Payton led the New Orleans Saints.

During that period, the NFL determined that the Saints had incentivized players for delivering hard hits on rival teams. As a result, Payton received a suspension from the NFL for a full year.

What Sparked the Latest Exchange

Wilson's reaction came after Payton made comments after the Broncos' historic 33-32 win over the Giants. The coach suggested that the Giants had "discovered new energy" with Jaxson Dart, who has replaced Wilson as the starting quarterback.

Moreover, Payton implied that he had told team 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 hoped that change would've happened long after our game,'" the coach commented.

Background of the Wilson-Payton Relationship

• The quarterback was traded to the Denver from the Seahawks in 2022 and signed a five-year, $245 million contract.
• The Broncos finished 4-11 in his first season before Denver hired Payton, who was coming back to coaching after a period in TV commentary.
• The coach replaced Wilson late into the 2023 season, a decision that prevented the player from getting injured.

If Wilson stayed on the roster by spring 2024, his $37 million salary for 2025 would have been locked in. In the end, Wilson was let go, ending the contentious split between the player and his coach.